I was eight when I first remember clearly hearing God's Voice. I was swimming in a pool, and my eyes burned from the chlorine. Without thinking, I grabbed a pair of goggles, slipped them on, and dipped my head underwater. Instantly, everything became crystal clear. I could see the tiniest fragments of leaves, toys at the bottom, and even a faint crack in one of the tiles. Curious, I came up for air, removed the goggles, and returned under, expecting to see the same things. But without the goggles, the clarity was gone.
Even as a child, God used this moment to whisper to my heart:
"If you ask Me to see life through My eyes, I will give you clarity, focus, and purpose."
As I've grown, God continues to speak to me through everyday experiences. The wind moving through the trees reminds me of the quiet, steady presence of the Holy Spirit. Watching waves erase my footprints in the sand brings to mind the cleansing power of Jesus' blood, washing away all my sins. When I hear my children's laughter, I'm reminded that God, too, has a joyful heart and delights in His creation. On days when the clouds cover the sun, God nudges me to remember that even though I can't see it, the sun still shines, just like His presence never leaves me—even when I can't feel it.
From the very beginning, when God created humanity in the Garden of Eden, He designed us to need His voice. Our souls long for connection with Him, to know Him deeply, and to be known by Him. In the Garden, everything was perfect. Adam and Eve experienced face-to-face intimacy with God. There was no confusion, no barriers—only pure, unbroken fellowship. But then sin entered, and that closeness was disrupted. Sin dulled our spiritual ears and clouded our ability to discern God's voice clearly.
Thankfully, in John 10:27, Jesus reassures us that, as His sheep, we can still hear and recognize His voice: "My sheep hear My voice, and I know them, and they follow Me." Discerning God's voice is essential for living out our faith, but it's often something we aren't taught or disciplined in. Many Christians quietly wrestle with doubt, feeling like they’re the only ones unsure how to hear from God in prayer. You might even feel hesitant to ask for help, wondering if it’s something you should already know. But don’t let those feelings hold you back. God wants to speak to you personally, and without discerning God's voice, you’ll struggle to know His will and experience the deep, intimate relationship Jesus offers.
So, how can you tell if what you're hearing is God's voice and not just your own thoughts or the enemy's deception? I’m so glad you asked! Here are three guiding questions to help you discern God's voice:
Does what you’re hearing align with Scripture?
God's voice will never contradict His Word. It will be convicting but never condemning. His voice brings love, not shame. It encourages and uplifts, not producing fear or anxiety. He draws us closer to Himself, never pushing us away. (Psalm 119:160; 2 Timothy 3:16; 1 John 4:18; 1 Corinthians 14:33)
Does what you’re hearing resonate with godly counsel from wise advisors?
God often confirms His voice through the wisdom of trusted, godly people in your life. Be cautious if what you hear pulls you away from sound biblical wisdom. (Proverbs 12:15, Hebrews 3:13)
Is there a sense of inner peace from the Holy Spirit?
God's voice is accompanied by peace, even in challenging moments. Take notice if the Holy Spirit raises a red flag or unease in your spirit. You have the Spirit of God within you to help you discern God's voice and take every thought captive in obedience to Christ. (John 16:13; 2 Corinthians 10:5)
If hearing from God in prayer feels confusing or intimidating, consider who you can reach out to for guidance. Don't wait any longer to seek help in this area. You don't have to live with uncertainty about whether you're discerning God's voice. As a follower of Christ, hearing from God in prayer is a promise God invites you to make. Seek Him; He will faithfully guide you in the clarity and confidence only He can provide.
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