They say, "God told me", or "God replied to me". And yet most of the time they are talking to themselves

They say, "God told me", or "God replied to me". And yet most of the time they are talking to themselves

Saint John of the Cross, a Spanish mystic and poet, is known for his deep spiritual insights and profound relationship with God. He was a key figure in the Christian mystical tradition, particularly in the area of contemplative prayer and the pursuit of union with God. In his writings, Saint John often speaks of the importance of silence and stillness in order to hear the voice of God.

When Saint John speaks of hearing God's voice, he is not referring to an audible voice that one hears with their physical ears. Rather, he is talking about a deep inner knowing, a sense of divine presence that transcends words and thoughts. This kind of communication with God is not limited to a select few, but is available to all who seek it with a sincere heart.

In the context of the quote, "They say, 'God told me', or 'God replied to me'. And yet most of the time they are talking to themselves", Saint John would likely caution against mistaking our own thoughts and desires for the voice of God. He believed that true communication with God requires a surrender of the ego and a willingness to listen in silence.

Saint John's own experiences of divine communication were often marked by a sense of awe and wonder, as he felt the presence of God in the depths of his soul. He understood that the voice of God is not always loud or dramatic, but can be found in the quiet whispers of the heart.

For Saint John, the key to hearing God's voice lies in cultivating a deep interior life through prayer, meditation, and contemplation. By quieting the mind and opening the heart to God's presence, one can begin to discern the true voice of God amidst the noise of the world.