In this episode of He Speaks with Kate, Kate welcomes David Holland—author, speaker, pastor, and encourager—for a powerful conversation about grace, freedom, and learning to hear the voice of our Heavenly Father.

David shares how he came to Christ at seven years old, yet spent much of his early Christian life struggling with guilt, shame, and the feeling that he had to earn God’s approval. Everything began to change when he discovered a deeper understanding of grace and realized that because of Jesus, he could freely approach his Heavenly Father and find love rather than disappointment.

Together, Kate and David explore how that understanding can transform the way we hear God. David discusses some of the things that can make His voice difficult to recognize—including shame, distractions, a noisy soul, and simply being uncomfortable with silence. He encourages listeners to make room for stillness and immerse themselves in Scripture, which gives the Holy Spirit a vocabulary through which to speak.

David also shares a memorable story from his own life when he sensed God telling him to call a Christian radio station and ask for a job—even though he had no experience or credentials. After initially resisting, a Scripture he had memorized came to mind and gave him the courage to make the call. The station happened to need someone at that exact moment, opening a door that would change the trajectory of his life.

Main Takeaway: You don’t have to earn your way into God’s presence. You are loved, welcomed, and accepted because of Jesus. Quiet the noise, know His Word, and draw close to your Heavenly Father—He desires a personal, life-giving relationship with you and wants you to hear His voice.