Genesis 2:16- And the LORD God commanded the man, “You are free to eat from any tree in the garden

We all want to hear the audible voice of God, but what is even more important is choosing to obey the inner voice of the Holy Spirit speaking to all of Christ’s believers. In the Old and New Testaments, we see that God spoke to people audibly. We also see the different contrasts of when people chose to either obey or disobey what God had told them. Adam, who heard clear instructions about the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, disobeyed God, which ultimately cost him his paradise. In another instance from the New Testament, we see Jesus who listened to God’s voice and obeyed whatever the Father would speak to Him. 

Christ’s obedience led to our salvation and deliverance, paving the road by example to resist the devil’s temptations and stand strong on the Word of God. Adam brought forth the demise of mankind through his sin, but Jesus’ obedience gave us restoration with the Father. Distinguishing between the voices that speak to us daily is very important to remain on the path God has for us. Our Father is constantly trying to guide and direct our lives, and in order to act on and obey His voice we need to be able to discern it from the other voices speaking.

Discernment is not just about knowing God’s will, but about knowing God Himself.

Discernment involves seeking God’s will, listening attentively to His voice, and distinguishing His guidance from the many voices vying for our attention. It requires an intimate relationship with the Holy Spirit, allowing Him to speak to our hearts and minds as we surrender our own desires and plans. To discern God’s guidance, we must cultivate a posture of humility, acknowledging our dependence on Him and His wisdom. We do not rely on our own understanding but instead lean on the Holy Spirit’s insight and revelation.

Is it possible to hear from God?

Is it possible to hear from God? The answer is yes. Jesus illustrates this with a beautiful word picture. In John 10, He describes the way in which sheep hear their master’s voice. In the same way we can hear God. The Bible is one of the main tools through which He speaks. Regular conversation with God can transform your life! Though it is not necessary, some find it helpful to identify a place and time to meet with God every day.

As Christians, one of the most vital aspects of our relationship with God is our ability to hear and follow His voice. God, our loving Shepherd, desires to guide us, protect us, and lead us into His perfect will. He longs to communicate with us, to speak words of comfort, wisdom, correction, and direction into our lives.

In a world filled with noise and distractions, it can be challenging to discern God’s voice amidst the clamor. Yet, as His children, we have been given the precious gift of spiritual sensitivity. Through the indwelling presence of the Holy Spirit, we can develop an intimate familiarity with the voice of our Heavenly Father. Listening to and following God’s voice is not merely a suggestion; it is essential for our spiritual growth, discernment, and obedience. His voice speaks truth that dispels deception, provides guidance in times of uncertainty, and brings peace amidst chaos. To cultivate an attentive ear to God’s voice, we must nurture our relationship with Him through prayer, studying His Word, and quiet reflection. As we spend time in His presence, our hearts become attuned to the gentle whispers of His Spirit, guiding us along the paths He has prepared for us.

Today, let us purposefully seek to hear and recognize God’s voice. May we be diligent in aligning our thoughts, desires, and actions with His perfect will. When we choose to follow His voice, we step into a life of fulfilment, joy, and abundant blessings, guided by the One who knows us intimately and loves us unconditionally. Take a moment to still your heart and listen. The Shepherd’s voice is calling. Will you follow?

My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me. John 10:27