We live in a loud world. Whether it is social media or some other form of communication, the messages are loud and repeated frequently. Messages like we deserve more, we need more, and the thought that our lives would be so much better if we just had “it”.
With all that clamor it’s not surprising that hearing from God and understanding His will can seem next to impossible. So how do we hear from God and understand His will? First, the Bible is clear about our need for rest, about being still, and waiting on God.
We are more likely to hear God’s voice when we are intentional about resting, about being still, and waiting on God. Our culture is in a hurry, but we must resist the urge to busy ourselves and instead make quiet time a priority.
Here are some practical ways to help you slow down:
Find a Habit that Works for You
If we really believe in God’s Word – then every time we read the Bible, we hear from God. One of my mentors told me that he reads the Bible the same time every day – whether he is working or on vacation. We too need to make time for His Word. I put a Bible verse on my phone each morning. I refer to and meditate on that verse during my lunch break. If I find myself in a waiting room somewhere I reflect again on that verse. That is just one practical habit that works for me – find a habit that works for you.
Don’t copy the behavior and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think. Then you will learn to know God’s will for you, which is good and pleasing and perfect.
Romans 12:2 NLT
God will NEVER direct you to do anything that doesn’t align with His Word. He makes it clear that we are transformed by changing the way we think. There is no other way to do that then by meditating and obeying God’s Word.
How Can You Know for Sure if Something is God’s Will?
There is no formula or exact science that you can follow. Full disclosure – sometimes, I wish there was. Instead, God asks us to cultivate a relationship with Him by reading, praying, and obeying His Word. I also found another way to help me clarify if I am hearing from God or not. I call it The Wisdom Test, and it’s found in the book of James.
But the wisdom from above is first of all pure. It is also peace loving, gentle at all times, and willing to yield to others. It is full of mercy and the fruit of good deeds. It shows no favoritism and is always sincere.
James 3:17 NLT
When you are thinking about a decision ask yourself these questions.
Is what I am thinking about pure?
Is the decision that I am making peace loving and gentle?
Is the plan full of mercy?
Is it full of good deeds?
Is the decision without favoritism and sincere?
Again, there is no exact science, but this verse found in the book of James can help you sift through your choice/s and see if it meets God’s definition of wisdom.
Today’s Secret from the Studio
Hearing God’s Voice in a Noisy world is done by seeking God continually – it’s not a formula – or an exact science – but He will show us His Will if we take time to Know Him and Obey His Word.
Monica Schmelter is the host of Bridges on Christian Television Network. Monica also just launched a brand-new podcast called Hope for the Journey. You can find it on LifeAudio or your favorite podcast APP
