God Speak

Be careful what you attribute to the Lord; make sure it is Him speaking and not your ego, greed or pride. Watch out for spiritually sounding souls, as they can be the culprits of Christ-less advice. They may talk about God and even invoke His will into discussions, but be wary of someone who assigns God’s will arbitrarily—with a prayerless whim.

Make sure what another is suggesting, even commanding, is not manipulative or self-serving for them. God speaks through generous givers, not tawdry takers. God normally communicates through humility, faith and accountability. If someone has it all figured out for you, this is a flag. They may have a wonderful plan for your life but have missed God’s plan entirely. People need to be avoided who throw around God’s endorsement aimlessly.

Pseudo spirituality is nauseous to our Lord. How can He speak clearly, consistently and with creditability through someone infiltrated with a compromised character? This type of “God speak” creates a dysfunctional faith. It is faith built on man’s persuasion and persistence rather than God’s will. What starts out as a pure word from the Lord—can evolve into a perverted word from man. Listen first to God and then validate it with man.

God does speak through His Word. Holy Scripture does not need any help, as it stands on its own, tall and glistening in the glory of God. While you read and digest His word, by faith, you know He has spoken. He speaks loudly, precisely and clearly from Scripture. Jesus answered, “It is written: ‘Man shall not live on bread alone, but on every word that comes from the mouth of God” (Matthew 4:4).

Use the New Testament as a filter for the Old Testament. This is the Jesus method of Bible interpretation. Seminary can be a good form of learning, but sitting at the feet of Jesus is better! As He speaks to you through His word, validate it through wise counsel.

God speaks loudly and precisely every day. He speaks through authorities, He speaks through our spouse, He speaks through our health, He speaks through our calendar, He speaks through friends, He speaks through strangers, and He speaks through circumstances. But most of all, He speaks through His Word.

Obey what you know, and, over time, what you are unsure of will become clear. Listen intently to the Lord and submit to His counsel. Don’t use or abuse this Christian privilege of hearing, knowing and understanding God’s voice. He speaks, so humbly listen and obey.

“The LORD came and stood there, calling as at the other times, “Samuel! Samuel!” Then Samuel said, “Speak, for your servant is listening” (1 Samuel 3:10).

Is the Bible my primary resource for discerning God’s will? What is He telling me to do?

Related Readings: Exodus 20:1; Psalm 62:11; Acts 11:9; Hebrews 1:1-3