How To Know The Voice Of The Lord
- “What do you think Jesus is saying to you at this point in your life, in the context of the challenges and opportunities you are facing?
- What indicators give you some measure of confidence that it is indeed Jesus speaking to you rather than someone or something else?”
These two questions start Gordon Smith’s introduction to his book, The Voice of Jesus.
Jesus said, “My sheep hear my voice; I know them, and they follow Me.” (John 10:27) Being a Christian means following Jesus Christ as Lord. It doesn’t mean to follow principles or even teachings, it is more personal than that. It is a matter of following the person of Christ by the help and ministry of the Holy Spirit.
Hearing the voice of Jesus involves the inner witness of the Spirit of God and the outer witness of the word of God, and often the support of other believers. It is critical for Christians to “hear” the voice – or sense the leading – of the Lord. Yet, many don’t seem to make this a priority in their lives.
If you want to learn to hear His voice, you are going to need to practice … a lot! Here are a few ideas that you might find helpful:
1. Read, become familiar with, and increase your understanding of, the Bible. One of the best ways to understand what He may be saying is to learn what He has already said. It makes it easier to recognize His leading.
2. Determine to apply what you hear. The voice of the Lord is primarily for encouragement (giving you courage to do what God has put in your heart) and/or for conviction (calling you to change your way of thinking or acting.
“Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says.” (James 1:22)
When we apply/obey what God has said to us, we experience inner delight and it clears room in our souls for more revelation.
3. Practice checking what you “hear” and how you respond (revelation – interpretation – application) with Scripture and with feedback from mature believers. You will never outgrow your need for these checks and balances. However, you will find that you will be able to grow to trust your discernment more and more.
4. Please do not settle for a life devoid of the voice of the Lord. His voice is one of the treasures purchased for you on the Cross. If you are having trouble, ask mature believers to help you learn to hear and obey the voice of the Lord. Your humble hunger will greatly encourage their faith.
May God increase you capacity to hear and obey the voice of the Lord!
~ Coach Tom
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