We expect to see art on canvases, in studios, galleries, and museums, but what about under a bridge? One of the things that makes this vibrant work of art so special is the fact that it’s unexpected.

This artwork inspired me to speak on something I’m very passionate about, and that’s the importance of listening for God’s voice every moment of every day. We expect to hear God’s voice from inside of our Bibles, while praying, inside the four walls of the church. But what about in our day to day life? God is always with us; it only makes sense that He speaks to us all the time as well.

When was the last time God spoke to you in an unexpected place? For me it was about a month ago. I had pneumonia, and in the midst of my illness, I made a decision. I was going to get as healthy as possible for my immunity’s sake. I was sick of being sick! After researching a particular supplement, I picked up the phone to make a purchase. I didn’t expect God to be on the other end of that call, but He was. Much to my frustration, my calls were never returned despite multiple attempts at purchasing this supplement. It was during this time, God was speaking to me, but I chose to ignore what He was telling me by continuing to try and make that purchase. If I had just been patient, stopping to pray about it, leaning into God and asking Him what He thought, I would’ve heard His voice loud and clear, much sooner than I actually did.

Eventually it hit me; I didn’t want these expensive (and unnecessary) supplements. God gave all of us a vibrant array of fruits and vegetables—all of which I happen to enjoy eating. I chose not to purchase those supplements and instead, give myself the real thing. I made a trip to the grocery store that weekend and took a walk through the produce section. I was met with vibrant reds—apples, strawberries, tomatoes, vibrant yellows—bananas and pineapple, vibrant greens—spinach and avocado, vibrant oranges and orange carrots. That’s when God began to speak to me through His very own creation.

God’s voice is clear and vibrant, bold and beautiful, yet humble and polite; He doesn’t force us to listen but waits patiently for us to take notice. I hope this inspires you to take notice of all the ways God speaks to you—whether it be a vibrant sunset or rainbow, a colorful flower, bird, fruit, or vegetable, and if you stumble upon some artwork under a bridge, don’t doubt for a second that too could be God’s vibrant voice.