When you Want to Hear God’s Voice
“My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me.” (John 10:27 ESV)
Hearing the Voice of God
Sometimes I hear someone say, “God spoke to me and said…” and then they explain what they believe He told them. Years ago, that used to bother me because I have never heard God speak in an audible voice.
I don’t doubt that God has spoken audibly to people on occasion. The Bible records many examples. God called to Adam in the Garden of Eden (Gen. 3:9), called Samuel by name several times (1 Sam. 3:8-10), and spoke to Moses from the burning bush (Ex. 3:1-4:17).
However, I believe that today God most commonly speaks to His children through His written Word. That is how He speaks to me.
As I read the Bible and meditate on what I have read, the Holy Spirit brings God’s Word to my mind as I make everyday decisions.
Recently, for example, I was given too much change at the counter of an auto parts store. I immediately realized the mistake and handed the extra money back to the clerk.
He looked surprised and said, “Wow! Thank you! You are a very honest man!”
I smiled and replied, “Thank you. I’m a Christian, and God would never want me to cheat you.”
At that moment, I wasn’t hearing an audible voice. Instead, God’s Word had already instructed my heart to deal honestly with others. His Spirit simply brought those truths to my remembrance at the right time.
God still speaks today, and one of His primary ways of speaking is through the Scriptures.
“But he said, ‘Blessed rather are those who hear the word of God and keep it!’” (Luke 11:28 ESV)
God’s People Hear His Words
“Whoever is of God hears the words of God. The reason why you do not hear them is that you are not of God.” (John 8:47 ESV)
Faith Comes Through God’s Word
“So faith comes from hearing, and hearing through the word of Christ.” (Rom. 10:17 ESV)
God’s Words Are Spirit and Life
“It is the Spirit who gives life; the flesh is no help at all. The words that I have spoken to you are spirit and life.” (John 6:63 ESV)
The Holy Spirit Brings God’s Word to Your Remembrance
“But the Helper, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, he will teach you all things and bring to your remembrance all that I have said to you.” (John 14:26 ESV)
Therefore
Read God’s Word daily. As you fill your mind with Scripture, the Holy Spirit will faithfully remind you of God’s truth when you need wisdom, guidance, conviction, encouragement, or strength. The more familiar you become with God’s Word, the more readily you will recognize His voice leading your life.
“For the word of God is living and active, sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing to the division of soul and of spirit, of joints and of marrow, and discerning the thoughts and intentions of the heart.” (Heb. 4:12 ESV)
“Behold, I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in to him and eat with him, and he with me.” (Rev. 3:20 ESV)