Understanding the Voice of God
When Prophet Moses was up on the mountain praying, the Israelites went astray. As Moses and Joshua descended, Joshua said, “There is a noise of war in the camp.” However, Moses, having been in the presence of the Lord, discerned that it was not the sound of victory or defeat but of revelry. Likewise, as we grow in intimacy with the Holy Spirit, we become more adept at discerning His voice and movements.
6. Does It Foster Humility or Pride?
A crucial test for discerning God’s voice is whether it instills humility or pride. True encounters with God should lead us to humility, love for God, and love for our neighbors.
“My child, perform your tasks with humility; then you will be loved by those whom God accepts. The greater you are, the more you must humble yourself; so you will find favor in the sight of the Lord. Many are lofty and renowned, but to the humble, He reveals His secrets. For great is the might of the Lord, but by the humble, He is glorified.” (Sirach 3:17-20)
If what we hear causes pride, it is not from God. True encounters with Him bear the fruit of the Spirit—joy, peace, love, kindness, patience, faithfulness, and self-control. The voice of God will always produce supernatural peace deep within us.
7. Does It Glorify Christ?
Any experience of hearing God’s voice should glorify Jesus Christ.
“He will glorify me, because He will take what is mine and declare it to you.” (John 16:14)
Does what you hear align with the life and teachings of Jesus? Does it lead you to walk as He walked?
“Again Jesus spoke to them, saying, ‘I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness but will have the light of life.'” (John 8:12)
8. Does It Cause Fear or Anxiety?
God’s voice brings freedom, not bondage.
“For freedom Christ has set us free. Stand firm, therefore, and do not submit again to a yoke of slavery.” (Galatians 5:1)
“Now the Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom.” (2 Corinthians 3:17)
God’s voice:
- Does not produce bondage.
- Is not oppressive.
- Brings freedom and purity.
- Is full of truth, not half-truths.
If what you hear causes fear, confusion, or bondage, it is not from God. True freedom is found in Christ.
9. Does It Create Confusion?
God is not the author of confusion.
“For God is not a God of confusion but of peace.” (1 Corinthians 14:33)
If what you hear brings uncertainty and unrest, pause and seek clarity in God’s Word.
10. Does It Diminish Your Consecration to the Lord?
One of the biggest signs that a voice is not from God is if it weakens your devotion to Him.
“For God did not call us to impurity but in holiness.” (1 Thessalonians 4:7)
Do the things you hear cause you to drift away from God? If it leads you back to worldly things you once left behind, it is not from Him.
“Jesus said to him, ‘No one who puts a hand to the plow and looks back is fit for the kingdom of God.'” (Luke 9:62)
“But I am afraid that as the serpent deceived Eve by its cunning, your thoughts will be led astray from a sincere and pure devotion to Christ.” (2 Corinthians 11:3)
Growing in Discernment
The more we walk closely with God, the better we recognize His voice.
“Just after daybreak, Jesus stood on the beach; but the disciples did not know that it was Jesus… That disciple whom Jesus loved said to Peter, ‘It is the Lord.'” (John 21:7)
Key Takeaways:
- Knowing God’s voice begins with intimacy with Him.
- Hearing His voice may happen instantly, but discerning takes time.
- A long walk with God does not guarantee perfect discernment; continual seeking is necessary.
As we stay within God’s parameters, we will safely navigate our spiritual journey. Seeking His wisdom is the key to recognizing and following His voice.
