JH,
The Bible is not outdated. It has been misrepresented and misunderstood but it is not outdated. It is still a way God can and does communicate himself to us. As for direct communication I like to think of it in terms of how a human parent communicates with their child. Sometimes we give an approving glance, sometimes words, sometimes a gesture and sometimes we may place that glass of milk in front of them and by our facial expression they know its time to drink their milk.
God too has many ways to communicate with us, we may not always recognize them but if we are looking for God he is listening, he is there. One of my favorite movies is Jim Carrey's "Bruce Almighty", at the end of the movie he's given the advice to BE THE MIRACLE, in other words be there to help others, make the miracle happen for others by his own efforts to help them. This translates into one word really, love. But now I've gone off your topic, sorry.
If we are hoping in God and looking out for his attempts to communicate with us, whether through the Bible, or our friends and family or perculiar co-incidences, or even dreams, we would see that he does indeed communicate. The key is an earnest heart and humility. If we have those things God will find us.
Love to you,
Sabrina