In this fascinating episode of 'Space for Life', host Tommy Thompson chats with an Indie award-winning author, speaker, writing coach, Michelle Layer Rahal. She discusses her journey as an author, writing her debut book 'Straining Forward', a compelling biography of a Vietnamese refugee's incredible life journey. Michelle emphasizes the importance of listening to God's voice and responding to it, a theme central to her most recent book, 'Are You Listening?' Michelle talks honestly about the real-life implications of trying to discern God's voice in our lives, dealing with God's silence, and perspectives about the 'dark night of the soul.'

00:06 Introduction and Guest Introduction

00:19 The Connection Between the Host and the Guest

01:26 Guest's Background and Career

02:05 Understanding the Role of a Writing Coach

05:12 The Journey of Writing the First Book

16:08 Reading an Excerpt from the First Book

20:06 The Aftermath of Writing the First Book

21:26 The Inspiration Behind the Second Book

25:59 Understanding God's Voice and Responding to It

29:11 God's Perception of Us

29:23 The Power of Listening to God

29:49 God's Constant Presence in Our Lives

30:20 The Challenge of Recognizing God's Voice

31:06 The Importance of Spiritual Disciplines

31:40 Understanding God's Character

32:33 Recognizing God's Voice Amidst Other Voices

33:17 The Role of Faith in Hearing God's Voice

34:04 Distinguishing God's Voice from Others

34:28 The Deception of the Devil

35:31 The Role of Dreams and Visions in God's Communication

39:20 The Importance of Community in Recognizing God's Voice

45:42 The Challenge of Recognizing God's Voice in Difficult Times

45:56 The Dark Night of the Soul

51:18 Connecting with God's Voice

51:31 The Role of Scripture and Prayer in Hearing God's Voice

52:21 The Joy of Responding to God's Call

www.michellelayerrahal.com