Stepping Stones

“For this is the covenant that I will make with the house of Israel, after those days says the LORD: I will put my laws into their minds. And I will write them upon their hearts. And I will be their God. And they shall be my people.” Hebrews 8:10-11.

Most Christians have an intense passion to hear God speaking into their own lives. Whether we are seeking encouragement, God’s wisdom on a matter or God’s guidance in a major life decision hearing from God seems to sometimes present a challenge. I am presently doing a Bible Study called The Seven Keys to Hearing God’s Voice. What is clear from the onset is that there are specific and intentional manners in which God speaks and confirms His message. Some answers will be instant and some will have to be mined for like gems. The seven steps in which God gives us to hear His word and know His mind are listed below.

1- Scripture – ‘All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work.’ 2 Timothy 3:16-17.

2- The Holy Spirit’s Speaking to Our Heart – ‘When the Counselor comes, whom I will send to you from the Father, the Spirit of truth who goes out from the Father, he will testify about me.’ John 15:26.

3- Godly Counsel – ‘But the manifestation of the Spirit is given to each one for the profit of all: But now indeed there are many members, yet one body.’ 1 Co. 12:7.

4- The Peace of God – ‘Let the peace of God rule in your hearts,’ Col. 3:15

5- Personal Prophecy – ‘Do not quench the Spirit; do not despise prophetic utterances. But examine everything carefully;’ 1 Thess. 5:19-21.

6- Confirmation – ‘By the mouth of two or three witnesses every fact may be confirmed.’ Matt. 18:16.

7- Circumstances/Timing – “Blessed are all who wait for him. Although the Lord gives you the bread of adversity and the water of affliction, your teachers will be hidden no more; with your own eyes you will see them. Whether you turn to the right or to the left, your ears will hear a voice behind you, saying, ‘This is the way; walk in it.’” Isaiah 30:18, 20-21.

The more we incorporate every step into our lives and develop a heart of humility to hear Him we will begin to recognize His voice.