It’s always amazing the plans God has for us. Too bad we’re frequently busy planning for God!

What could happen if we truly listened to His voice? I’ve come to love those moments when God is speaking, gently nudging us in a certain direction. It may seem small and insignificant, whether it be to help someone, to give a little extra, or say a kind word at the right moment. Yet those moments can yield fruit we could hardly imagine.

My wife, Rebekah, and I recently returned from an amazing trip to Uganda. We went there to work with the ministry of Watoto, which offers holistic care of over 3,000 orphans. Rebekah and I had the incredible privilege of taking 10 amazing artists, musicians, and songwriters with us to run the first Watoto Worship Camp. We saw so many wonderful things happen—and we know that the seeds planted will continue to grow. We’re excited for the next camp.

At many points in that week, I found myself in complete awe, shocked that God would provide the finances for a trip of this nature and allow us to lead such a high caliber team. Even now my mind is still blown away as we begin to see the long-lasting impact this investment will have. And it all started with obedience to a whisper.

A good friend asked us to help supply musical instruments for Watoto. We said yes. It seemed so simple: We gave a portion of CD sale income, knowing it was going to a good cause. Then we visited Watoto, fell in love with the ministry, and never looked back.

That was 6 years ago. To see the journey God’s taken us on is humbling—and pretty cool. We do quite a bit more now with Watoto, but it’s never been about what we do. It’s always been about listening to God’s whisper . . . and obeying.

Yes, there is sacrifice involved. Sometimes God’s whispers may not seem pleasant. The calling won’t always be financial—He may ask for our time or energies. But listen to what God is saying in that still small voice. Obey the Father’s words . . . and be amazed at the great things those small steps of obedience will produce.

“And after the earthquake a fire; but the Lord was not in the fire: and after the fire a still small voice.” 1 Kings 19:12 (KJV)