How does God speak to you?

I have been asked this question multiple times, and I mostly stumble over my answers.

The truth is, it's hard to explain how God speaks to me. Sometimes He speaks through visions or dreams, other times it's a still, quiet voice. Not quite a whisper....more of a gentle breeze past my ear with words that burn my heart.

I have had God speak to me through others....even through non-believers. As pain and turmoil is shared, that loving caress with words that build you up from the inside out is as much God's voice as the booming baritone that most expect to hear.

Sometimes I miss the message....maybe most times, actually. He guides me with words that make no sense to the World's ways. I am asked to say or do things that will most definitely make me stand out....but not in a 'wow, she's so awesome' kind of way....more like a 'yep, she's whacked' kind of way.

That's how I know it's God's voice.

And that potential for embarrassment is what keeps me from the growth I desperately need.

The voice has been strong lately, and He's telling me to forgive. He has even been clear on WHO to forgive, and HOW to do it. I'm still hurting. My son is still hurting. And God wants me to forgive. I know the message is urgent, for He has used every communication tool to convey it.

I have had dreams. And visions.

I have heard the still, small voice brushing past my ears.

I have heard the booming command, and had His words jump at me from the Bible. My heart has been convicted.

So I will listen. Because I know that God's ways are not always understood, but they are always right.