Identifying God?s Voice
Please open your Bible and read:
(John 10:1 – 30)
Recognizing God?s voice is essential in the Christian life, and yet the ability to identify it often eludes us. Last weekend we looked at ways to evaluate whose voice we are hearing. We can also ask:
1) What effect will this idea have on others? We are called to be living letters from God to demonstrate His true nature. (2 Corinthians 3:3) Selfish or people pleasing plans never come from God.
2) Is patience required? An affirmative answer is a likely indicator that this is from God. ?Hurry up and get it done? is not His way; ?Be still and wait upon the Lord? is. (Psalm 46:10)
3) What potential consequences are there? God?s ideas take the future into account. Satan urges us to live for today. Too many times we stumble because we fail to think beyond the present moment.
4) Is the Lord asking me to get godly counsel? God sometimes uses others to confirm His plan. Our part is to choose wisely whom we ask.
5) Will this idea help me to mature spiritually? God?s choices always point us toward becoming like Jesus.
6) Am I experiencing peace about saying yes? Lack of peace may not be sufficient reason to say no – if we are wrestling with fear, insecurity, or inadequacy, then it may take a while for serenity to come. But when peace is present, it is a sweet confirmation that we are hearing from Him.
Discerning that a message is from the Lord takes practice, but Jesus promised we will know His voice. How clearly can you hear Him speaking?
About the Author
This article was written by Charles Stanley. You can read more about this author by clicking this link:
http://www.talk.thelife.com/charles-stanley/
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