In Search of Clarity

The Voice of the Holy Spirit

Habakkuk 2:1

I will stand at my watch and station myself on the ramparts; I will look to see what he will say to me, and what answer I am to give to this complaint. (New International Version-NIV)

I will stand upon my watch, and set me upon the tower, and will watch to see what he will say unto me, and what I shall answer when I am reproved. (King James Version-KJV)

I will take my stand at my watchpost and station myself on the tower and look out to see what he will say to me, and what I will answer concerning my complaint. (English Standard Version-ESV)

I will climb up to my watchtower and stand at my guard post. There I will wait to see what the LORD says and how he will answer my complaint. (New Living Translation-NLT)

I will stand my watch and set myself on the rampart and watch to see what He will say to me, and what I will answer when I am corrected. (New King James Version-NKJV)


The Bible Gateway website (one of many online Bible networks) offers over 200 versions of the Bible, including audio format, and offers translations in over 70 different languages. In addition to the different versions, they also offer different types of study: parallel side-by-side translations, cross-reference, devotional, and thematic, to name a few.

While I understand the desire to fully appreciate the message of the Bible--(in the above translations of Habakkuk, I am drawn to the NKJV because it speaks to me of accountability), I often wonder if we miss the most important message of all--the role of the Holy Spirit.

In John 14:26, we are reminded: “But the Advocate, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you all things and will remind you of everything I have said to you.” And Isaiah 30:21 tells us,” Whether you turn to the right or to the left, your ears will hear a voice behind you, saying, 'This is the way; walk in it.” And 1 Kings, Chapter 19:11-12, reminds us to listen for the still, small voice.

While seeking comfort, peace, and a closer relationship with the Lord in our Bible reading, study, and verses we memorize, we also need to be careful. With so many translations, it’s tempting to try to find the one that fits our own agenda and muffles that “still, small voice” that sometimes leads us away from our own plans while guiding us in the right direction. We need to find the balance that the Word of God provides. It’s full of lessons from people in the Bible who have gone before us as we learn from their experiences. It’s full of history and instruction, prophecy, redemption, miracles, and revelation.

I pray that in the many choices available to hear and study God’s Word, we take the time to listen to that “still, small voice”. It’s still there.