We live in a world of communication — telephones, the internet and satellite serve to connect people all over the world. Still, communication is messy business. Poor call quality, dropped lines and misdials are all too common and frustrating ... and that is before we get to try and understand what the other person is really saying.

Perhaps this is how we feel about communicating with God. When the Bible was seen as the central means of dialogue it wasn't so bad, but the new and 'improved' methods popularized by modern movements and mystics have disillusioned many individuals. The quest to 'discover the will of God', discern the mysterious promptings of the Spirit, and open the floodgates of divine communication are all hot topics in popular Christian culture, and cause much unnecessary anguish and confusion.

About the Author: Dr Gary E. Gilley has pastored at Southern View Chapel since 1975. Along with his preaching and teaching ministry, he is also the author and editor of the monthly contemporary theological issues publication Think on These Things. Dr Gilley serves on the respective advisory boards of the Illinois Bible Church Mission and the Brazil Gospel Fellowship Mission. He is a graduate of The Moody Bible Institute and Cambridge Graduate School, both in the US. He and his wife have two sons.