By Andrew Williams
“My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me.” (John 10:27)
Good morning fellow disciples, in this series we will be answering questions that will help us to become faithful disciples of Christ.
As believers, one of our greatest desires is to hear and discern the voice of God in our lives. In a world filled with noise and distractions, understanding how to recognize His guidance can be challenging. However, Scripture assures us that God desires to communicate with us, guiding us in His perfect will.
SO, HOW CAN WE DISCERN GOD’S VOICE?
Here are some key principles to consider:
- 1. Spend Time in His Word
“Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.” (Psalm 119:105)
God speaks to us primarily through His Word. By regularly reading and meditating on Scripture, we become familiar with His character, His promises, and His ways. This familiarity helps us recognize His voice amidst the competing messages of the world.
2. Cultivate a Prayerful Heart
“Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God.” (Philippians 4:6)
Prayer is a vital channel for communication with God. By bringing our questions and concerns to Him, we open our hearts to receive His guidance. Taking time to listen in prayer, rather than just speaking, allows us to be more attuned to His responses.
3. Seek the Counsel of Others
“Without counsel plans fail, but with many advisers they succeed.” (Proverbs 15:22)
God often speaks through the wisdom and experiences of others. Engaging with mature believers, mentors, or spiritual leaders can provide valuable insights and confirmation as we seek to discern His will. Community can be a powerful tool in understanding God’s voice.
4. Pay Attention to Inner Promptings
“And we impart this in words not taught by human wisdom but taught by the Spirit, interpreting spiritual truths to those who are spiritual.” (1 Corinthians 2:13)
The Holy Spirit resides within us, guiding and prompting us in our daily lives. Developing sensitivity to these inner promptings or convictions can help us discern God’s direction. Trusting these leadings, especially when they align with Scripture, can be a clear indication of His voice.
5. Look for Confirmation
“Let everything be established by the testimony of two or three witnesses.” (2 Corinthians 13:1)
When we believe we have heard God’s voice, it’s wise to seek confirmation. This can come through Scripture, prayer, or the counsel of others. Confirming our sense of direction helps ensure that we are truly following God’s leading.
Discerning God’s voice is a journey that requires patience, practice, and willingness to be led. As we cultivate our relationship with Him, we will grow more attuned to His guidance and direction in our lives.
Prayer: Father God, thank You for the promise that You desire to speak to us and guide us. We confess that in the busyness of life, it can be difficult to hear Your voice amidst the noise.
Help us to prioritize time in Your Word, where we can learn more about Your character and Your ways. Teach us to cultivate a prayerful heart that listens as much as it speaks.
Surround us with wise counsel and help us to be sensitive to the promptings of Your Holy Spirit. May we seek confirmation and be open to Your guidance in every decision we face.
Lord, we long to follow You closely and to know Your voice. Grant us discernment as we navigate our daily lives, that we may walk in the path You have laid out for us. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.
