Last week we talked about the different voices we give our attention. There is the voice of Satan, the voice of our flesh, and the voice of God. The challenge is to make sure it is the voice to God we give our attention. Below is listed some simple ways to hear God’s voice.
Our Conscience
For what can be known about God is plain to them, because God has shown it to them. For his invisible attributes, namely, his eternal power and divine nature, have been clearly perceived, ever since the creation of the world, in the things that have been made. So they are without excuse. Romans 1:19–20 (ESV)
God created us with a natural knowledge of him. We are built in with a sense of right or wrong. However, we don’t want to totally rely upon our conscience. There are many who had their conscience seared. There is a limit to how much we can rely upon our conscience, but it serves as the starting point.
The Scriptures
All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, equipped for every good work. 2 Timothy 3:16–17 (ESV)
We know God speaks in the Scriptures. God’s Word is truth. There are two issues we run into when relying upon the Scriptures to hear God’s Word. The first is that the truth of Scripture can be twisted. It can be taken out of context. Satan knows the Scripture even better than you do. He used Scripture against Jesus and he can use it against you. A second challenge is that there are many situations in life where the Scripture does not seem to give a clear answer. What do we do in those situations?
Godly Leaders
Obey your leaders and submit to them, for they are keeping watch over your souls, as those who will have to give an account. Let them do this with joy and not with groaning, for that would be of no advantage to you. Hebrews 13:17 (ESV)
Let every person be subject to the governing authorities. For there is no authority except from God, and those that exist have been instituted by God. Romans 13:1 (ESV)
God has placed leaders in the church and other places to guide us and direct us. Where there are multiple visions, there is division. One day they will give an account before God. God entrusts our leaders to set and to cast vision. We may not always like the vision, but if we believe they are are seeking God’s will and direction it is important we get on board. If they are not seeking God’s direction, then maybe it is time to get onboard another ship.
Godly Mentors
Where there is no guidance, a people falls, but in an abundance of counselors there is safety. Proverbs 11:14 (ESV)
By insolence comes nothing but strife, but with those who take advice is wisdom. Proverbs 13:10 (ESV)
The way of a fool is right in his own eyes, but a wise man listens to advice. Proverbs 12:15 (ESV)
Do you have godly mentors in your life you look up to. Oftentimes we limit ourselves to to the advice of our peers. Consider someone who might have come out on the other side of the struggle you now find yourself engaged in. What does God have to share with you through that other person?
Circumstances
After this Paul left Athens and went to Corinth. And he found a Jew named Aquila, a native of Pontus, recently come from Italy with his wife Priscilla, because Claudius had commanded all the Jews to leave Rome. And he went to see them, and because he was of the same trade he stayed with them and worked, for they were tentmakers by trade. Acts 18:1–3 (ESV)
I have long given up the idea that there are coincidences. I have a new name for them. I call them God incidents. Sometimes to hear God speak we just need to simple look around us and see what he is up to. See where he is bringing alignment. Then come alongside what he is doing.
Mary Spiegel says
I have been in a Psychotic Depression for 20 years since I was left in my house with 3 mortgages and back taxes and a husband that walked away. He had my two small kids and I couldn’t rgreataise them because I had to go to work psychotically. They are grown now and I have found the root of my illness, have joined great church and finally being the Woman God wants me to be. Or I am getting there and hope to help others. OUr country is a mess in regards to raising children without Christ. I left my own church to let other family members stay there and now have rejoined my old church. It is full of love now and no one but the LOrd can heal me. thank goodness I have a place of my own and the Liberty to follow Christ away from abuse.
Jason Lennon says
Mary,
Thanks for sharing your amazing story. We all have struggle in our lives, some much more than others. I am happy you find strength and healing from the Lord. You are in my prayers.
Jason
Tami Pino says
Another great teaching Pastor Phil!!! Thank you for this. May the Lord continue to bless you and your ministry! Have a great week and I look forward to hearing you next week. I’ve said it before, If I lived in New Jersey I would happily attend your church, but I live in CA!
Melissa says
Beyond a Great teaching! I am a single mom of two wonderful girls. I am currently struggling in every given way. I am on medical leave without pay. I had a stroke in October, finally diagnosed with epilepsy after 30years ahs have severe migraines. The doctor doesn’t plan on releasing me therefore I’ve applied for disability which I’ve yet heard anything. I’m behind on my mortgage and utilities. It is beyond a challenge what I am facing. I’ve returned to church and started attending bible studies. God is on my side this teaching does me more and more!
mary spiegel says
You are on your way. Tithe and tell your kids that you love them and God will take care of your needs give them what they need and they will give back
Melissa says
Your words of encouragement are greatly appreciated!
Mary Spiegel says
I commend you for keeping upbeat for your girls with all the struggles you have been having. You are on the right track going to church. god Bless
Melissa says
It has been an obstacle and staying positive is very hard! However I know God will not leave us! Thank you for your words of encouragement I really appreciate it!
Jason Lennon says
“I have long given up the idea that there are coincidences. I have a new name for them. I call them God incidents. ”
I’ve also heard coincidences are God’s way of doing something anonymously. I go back through my life and find so many of these ‘coincidences”