So did I just hear from
God? This is a question that is so often asked. How do we really know when God
has spoken to us? Is it as hard as we make it? God speaks to His people today
without question, but we at times struggle to determine if it is really Him or
if we even have the capacity to hear from Him. Jesus said His sheep know His
voice (John 10). Knowing when God speaks is primarily a learning to recognize
His voice. We learn to recognize the voice and communication style of anyone we
are in relationship with and that is the same with God. We can know when He
speaks to us.
But how? Are there
things we need to be aware of and do? What if I am simply not sure it is God?
That is perfectly normal. Quite often we can mistake our own thoughts and ideas
for God speaking. And, God has instructed us to "test the spirits to see
whether they are from God" (1 John 4:1). There are some basic questions I
like to consider when determining if what I just heard or felt is really from
God.
1. Is this leading consistent with God’s character as revealed
in His Word?
a. “Revelation” does
not carry the same weight as Scripture and will never replace or supercede
Scripture.
2. Do my closest friends and spiritual mentors sense this to be God’s
leading in my life as well?
a. “If a leading
creates unrest in the spirit of mature Christian friends or counselors as you
share it with them, question it. If a leading requires you to shatter family
relationships or important friendships, question it. If a leading requires you
to go deeply in debt or place someone else in a position of awkwardness,
compromise, or danger, question it. I am not saying you should automatically
reject such leadings (unless they are also against Scripture), but reconsider
them and treat them very carefully.” (Hybels 1998, 165)
3. Even if it may be tough, does my spirit tell me I am doing
the right thing? Do I have a genuine peace?
4. Is this leading self-serving and self-promoting or does it
call me to serve others? Is God calling me to humble myself and serve others?
5. As I begin to step out in obedience to this leading, is God’s
Spirit confirming it in my heart? Do I see this standing the test of time or is
this rash?
6. What circumstances have confirmed that this leading is God’s
will for my life? Do I have the gifts and abilities needed for the task?
7. What is likely to be the outcome of this leading? Will it
bring glory to God?
#1 is paramount. God is
never going to contradict His written word. If the "leading" fails
test one don't even go through the other 6. But, friends, know this. God is
speaking to His people today. He desires to speak to you in the same way you
speak to Him. Be open and receptive to hear the voice of the Lord. He is
speaking...are we listening?
