Have you often wondered as I have just what exactly is “hearing God’s voice”? God in his wisdom knows that we as humans ponder that question at different times in our lives. As a matter of fact it has been at the focal point of all creation and especially when Adam and Eve were created in the Garden of Eden.
I find it very interesting that during the creation God actually spoke to his creation and commanded it and the creatures there in to do his will. NIV Genesis 1 20-25 Do you think that creation had a choice in not listening to God’s voice as you and I do today?
What a unique privilege it must have been as it is today to literally hear the sound of God’s voice. He gave clear instructions and specific commands to them on exactly what he wanted and expected. Genesis 1 28-30
How can you know for sure that you’ve heard Him correctly?
Is it consistent with the Word of God? God will not communicate anything that is contrary to his word the bible. If you are in fact reading the bible and seeking his voice the Holy Spirit will bring the word of God to remembrance or direct you to it, and it will be spot on for the current situation you are facing.
Do I have genuine peace about it? The Holy Spirit is wonderful at confirming God’s word in our hearts. You can trust God’s word for any and everything in your life, regardless of the circumstances. You have the advantage of knowing that billions of other people on the planet have experienced and been challenged with the same things you are going through, and that the same word of God was the answer for them. It always has been and always will be. NKJV 2 Timothy 3:16 All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness:
Is this consistent with God’s overall will and plan for my life? If you are expecting
God to say something that is not consistent for his plan in your life of character
development and spiritual growth and making you more like his son Jesus, then you
need to go back to the drawing board and realign your priorities, wants and desires
with his desires for your life.
Romans 8:28 And we know that all things work
together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his
purpose.
Yes, I will admit this is mostly easier said than done. Even I have difficulty at times holding it all together when life stresses press upon me. I recall as recent as last week that I was emotionally overwhelmed by the hurtful behavior of other people toward me. But after the emotional torrent calmed down in my soul, I was gently reminded of the behavior that I could expect from people who have not had the born again experience. I was reminded how my old behavior was in keeping with my old nature before the born again experience.
We all need reminding from time to time, and I am glad that God will bring us back to emotional balance if we are willing to listen to his gentle voice.
Eugene Coghill