Hearing from God

Do you want to hear from God? He speaks through the spirit and also circumstance. But be careful to distinguish God’s voice from your own – your own ideas, your own emotions, your own desires, your own imagination(s).

If you do not hear God today, two things are required:

First, your answer must first be “Yes.” Even before hearing from him, you must be ready to go with him, to do whatever he says. If the answer is “Maybe,” or “I’ll think about it,” why should he speak to you? He is God! He does not reveal his will in order for it to be considered. He reveals his will in order to share the joy of his glory. He is majestic. He is of infinite worth. His character and person are dazzling in their beauty. And he has great joy in sharing his glory with us so that we can recognize it and share in the wonder and joy of it. Such glory and such sovereignty do not suffer disobedience or a half heart casually. He reveals himself and his will in order to be obeyed whole-heartedly. So don’t ask for God to reveal his will or to speak to you unless you are ready (even now) with a whole heart to do it.

Second, travel frequently and consistently where God most frequently speaks (to you and to others). This may be in church or bible study. It may be in prayer in the solitude of your closet or in the congregation of others worshiping. It may be when listening and sharing with godly friends. Go where God speaks. If you do not frequent any of those places (with your feet or your heart), why should you be surprised that you do not hear his voice?!

Based on a sermon by Gregg Matte (italics are his phrases) and a conversation with a friend.