IS IT HIM OR IS IT YOU?
Last week we discussed making room to hear the voice of God in your prayer times. I know “hearing” the voice of “God” can seem a bit robust.
If you’re wired at all the way I am, then you’ve had times where you thought God was speaking to you but you were unsure. You’ve probably thought to yourself, as I have, “Is this God or is this just me?”
THREE WAYS TO KNOW
Distinguishing God’s voice from your desires can be a bit difficult sometimes. However, there are three ways you can determine what is you and what is God.
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The Word
“For the word of God is living and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the division of soul and spirit, and of joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart.”
Hebrews 4:12 NKJV
How does what you’re thinking align with scripture? The voice you hear in your heart will never contradict, the words contained in the Bible if it’s from God. If it doesn’t line up with the written Word, throw it out!
The voice you hear in your heart will never contradict, the words contained in the Bible if it’s from God. Share on X-
The Spirit
“…When He, the Spirit of truth, has come, He will guide you into all truth…”
John 16:13 NKJV
We could save ourselves from a lot of the messes we get into if we would pause before we make a move and simply say, “Spirit lead me.” If the voice you hear violates the inner witness of the Holy Ghost then don’t proceed! He has set up guard rails for your safety, don’t cross the line.
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Your Leaders
Obey those who rule over you, and be submissive, for they watch out for your souls, as those who must give account.
Hebrews 13:17 NKJV
Ole Solomon said in the book of proverbs that “in the multitude of counselors there is safety.” (See Proverbs 11:14) This one has saved me so many times along my journey. The reality is that when desire is high, discernment is typically low. This isn’t to say that having “desire” is bad by any means. It simply highlights the significance of having Godly counsel in your life such as your local pastor.
When desire is high, discernment is typically low. Share on XDEFENSE AGAINST DECEPTION
If you will intentionally submit every word that you think could be from God to these three tests, then you won’t be detoured. They’ll act as a defense against deception. You don’t have to fall prey to an illegitimate voice or thought that is pretending to be God. You can hear and know His voice!
Caleb and Ali live in East Tennessee where they serve at The Lift Church. With boldness and conviction, their deepest desire is to see the church revived and the world awakened. Learn more about The Lift by visiting theliftchurch.tv.
