Learning To Hear God’s Voice

LEARNING TO HEAR GOD’S VOICE

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text: John 10:27

Supporting Texts: Psalm 46:10, Isaiah 30:21, Hebrews 3:7-8, Revelation 3:20

INTRODUCTION:

Hearing God’s voice is a vital part of the Christian walk. Without clear communication from God, believers can easily lose direction, fall into confusion, or be misled by the enemy. The Bible assures us that Jesus’ sheep know His voice and follow Him. This intimate communication with God is not limited to a select few; it is a privilege available to every believer who desires to listen and obey.

Many Christians struggle to discern God’s voice amidst the noise of daily life, personal desires, and the world’s distractions. Learning to hear God requires intentionality, patience, and a heart that is tuned to His Spirit. It involves not only listening but also responding in faith and obedience, which opens the door for God’s guidance, comfort, and correction.

Today’s message will equip you with practical biblical principles to help you cultivate a deeper sensitivity to God’s voice. As you learn to recognise His leading, your faith will grow stronger, your decisions wiser, and your relationship with Him more intimate.

1. DEVELOP A QUIET HEART TO HEAR GOD

a) Practice stillness and silence (Psalm 46:10):

God often speaks in the quiet moments when we cease our striving and listen with calm hearts. Creating space for silence allows His voice to come through the clutter of our thoughts.

b) Remove distractions (Isaiah 30:21):

Eliminate the noise from social media, constant busyness, and worldly distractions that drown out God’s whisper. Focused attention is necessary to discern His voice.

c) Cultivate a habit of prayer and meditation (Psalm 5:3):

Daily communion with God builds spiritual sensitivity. Prayer is both talking to God and listening for His reply.

d) Develop patience (Ecclesiastes 3:1):

Sometimes God’s voice comes slowly or gently. Being patient and persistent in seeking Him helps us to wait on His timing.

Biblical Example: Elijah heard God not in the wind, earthquake, or fire but in a still small voice (1 Kings 19:11-13), teaching us that God’s voice may be subtle but always clear to those who listen carefully.

2. KNOW GOD’S CHARACTER TO RECOGNISE HIS VOICE

a) God’s voice brings peace, not confusion (John 14:27):

When God speaks, His words bring calm assurance, even in difficult circumstances. If you feel fear or anxiety, it is likely not from God.

b) God’s voice aligns with His Word (2 Timothy 3:16-17):

What God says will never contradict Scripture. Use the Bible as your filter to test what you hear.

c) God’s voice encourages righteousness and love (1 John 4:8):

His voice inspires us to walk in holiness and love, never in fear, hatred, or deception.

d) God’s voice leads to faith and action (James 1:22):

Hearing God is not enough; His voice prompts us to obey and step out in faith.

Biblical Example: Samuel recognised God’s voice when he heard it calling his name (1 Samuel 3:1-10) because he was familiar with God’s ways and willing to obey.

3. GUARD AGAINST FALSE VOICES

a) Be aware of the enemy’s tactics (John 10:10):

Satan mimics God’s voice to deceive and lead believers astray. Discernment is essential.

b) Test every word by prayer and counsel (Proverbs 15:22):

Seek confirmation through prayer, wise counsel, and the peace of God before acting.

c) Avoid impulsive decisions (Proverbs 19:2):

Quick decisions without waiting for God’s confirmation can lead to error.

d) Stay rooted in the community of faith (Hebrews 10:24-25):

Fellowship with mature believers helps you confirm and clarify what you hear from God.

Biblical Example: The Bereans were commended for testing Paul’s teachings against Scripture to ensure it was truly from God (Acts 17:10-11).

4. RESPOND TO GOD’S VOICE PROMPTLY

a) Obedience strengthens spiritual hearing (John 14:23):

The more you obey, the clearer God’s voice becomes in your life.

b) Trust God even when His instructions seem difficult (Genesis 22:1-2):

Faith often requires us to follow God’s voice into uncomfortable or challenging places.

c) Praise and worship cultivate sensitivity (Psalm 22:3):

Engaging in worship draws God’s presence near, making His voice easier to perceive.

d) Keep a journal of God’s instructions and answers (Habakkuk 2:2):

Writing down what God reveals helps you track His faithfulness and deepen your understanding.

Biblical Example: Abraham’s readiness to obey God’s call to sacrifice Isaac showed his trust and responsiveness to God’s voice (Genesis 22:1-19).

5. ENJOY THE BLESSINGS OF HEARING GOD’S VOICE

a) Divine guidance leads to success (Psalm 32:8):

God promises to instruct and teach us the way we should go when we listen to Him.

b) Peace in decisions (Philippians 4:7):

Hearing God brings supernatural peace that guards our hearts amid uncertainty.

c) Strengthened relationship with God (James 4:8):

The more we listen, the deeper our intimacy with God becomes.