How To Listen To God's Voice Series

HOW TO LISTEN TO GOD'S VOICE

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text: John 10:27

"My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me."

Supporting Texts: Isaiah 30:21, 1 Kings 19:11-13, Psalm 46:10, Hebrews 3:7-8

INTRODUCTION:

Listening to God's voice is central to a believer’s relationship with Him. It is the way God communicates His will, guidance, comfort, and instruction. However, many believers struggle to hear God's voice amidst the noise of daily life, distractions, and doubts. This Bible study will explore how to tune in to God’s voice and recognize His leading in various forms.

1. UNDERSTANDING THE IMPORTANCE OF HEARING GOD'S VOICE

The ability to hear God’s voice is a gift and necessity for spiritual growth and obedience.

a) God’s voice brings guidance (Psalm 32:8)

God's voice directs us in the paths of righteousness, guiding us in decisions big and small.

b) God's voice brings peace (Isaiah 55:12)

When we hear from God, it calms our hearts and reassures us of His plans for our lives.

c) God's voice strengthens our faith (Romans 10:17)

Hearing God’s voice increases our trust in Him and deepens our belief in His promises.

d) God's voice brings correction and encouragement (Hebrews 12:6)

God speaks to correct us and to uplift us, ensuring we stay aligned with His will.

e) Biblical Example: Samuel Hearing God’s Call (1 Samuel 3:1-10)

Samuel, as a young boy, heard God's voice in the middle of the night, which led to a life of prophetic ministry.

2. CONDITIONS FOR HEARING GOD’S VOICE

There are specific conditions that must be met for us to clearly hear God’s voice.

a) A heart of humility and surrender (James 4:10)

To hear from God, we must approach Him with humility, surrendering our will to His.

b) A life of obedience to God’s Word (John 14:21)

Obeying God’s Word creates an atmosphere in which His voice can be heard more clearly.

c) A willingness to listen and wait (Psalm 46:10)

We must take time to be still, quieting our hearts and minds to hear God’s voice.

d) Removing distractions (Matthew 6:6)

We need to eliminate distractions that hinder us from hearing God’s voice, such as noise, busyness, or unresolved issues.

e) Biblical Example: Elijah’s Encounter with God (1 Kings 19:11-13)

Elijah had to quiet his spirit in the midst of great turmoil to hear God’s still, small voice.

3. WAYS GOD SPEAKS TO HIS PEOPLE

God speaks in various ways, and recognizing His method is key to hearing His voice clearly.

a) Through the Bible (2 Timothy 3:16)

God’s Word is the primary way He speaks to us, and it is living and active, speaking into every situation.

b) Through prayer (Matthew 7:7)

Prayer is a two-way communication with God; as we speak to Him, He also speaks back to us.

c) Through the Holy Spirit (John 16:13)

The Holy Spirit speaks to our hearts, guiding, convicting, and comforting us according to God’s will.

d) Through circumstances and open doors (Revelation 3:7-8)

God uses circumstances, situations, and the doors He opens or closes to communicate His will.

e) Biblical Example: Paul’s Guidance through the Holy Spirit (Acts 16:6-10)

Paul received guidance through the Holy Spirit, who directed him on where to preach and where to go.

4. DEVELOPING A CULTURE OF HEARING GOD’S VOICE

Hearing God’s voice is not a one-time experience but should be a continuous practice in the life of a believer.

a) Regular time of quietness and prayer (Mark 1:35)

Jesus often withdrew to pray alone, demonstrating the importance of regular moments with God to hear His voice.

b) Meditating on the Word of God (Joshua 1:8)

As we meditate on Scripture, we create space for God’s voice to speak directly into our hearts and situations.

c) Listening with an expectant heart (Matthew 7:8)

When we expect God to speak to us, we are more likely to recognize His voice.

d) Developing sensitivity to the Holy Spirit (Galatians 5:16)

Living in the Spirit and being sensitive to His leading will increase our ability to discern God’s voice.

e) Biblical Example: Mary’s Heart to Hear God (Luke 1:38)

Mary's willingness to hear God’s voice was demonstrated by her response of faith and obedience to His calling.

5. TESTING WHAT YOU HEAR

It is essential to test what we hear to ensure that it aligns with God’s will and the truth of His Word.

a) The Word of God is the standard (Isaiah 8:20)

Anything we hear from God must align with the truth of Scripture; it will never contradict His Word.

b) Seeking confirmation through godly counsel (Proverbs 11:14)

When in doubt, seek counsel from mature believers who can confirm what God is saying.

c) The peace of God as a witness (Colossians 3:15)

When God speaks, He will give peace that confirms His message. If there is no peace, it may not be His voice.