Christians believe God still speaks, most clearly through Jesus and through the Bible, which tells his story and helps us recognise his character. The Holy Spirit can also guide, prompt, encourage and bring Scripture to mind. God may use prayer, other people and circumstances, but we can still misunderstand what God is saying.
Learning to recognise God’s voice is like learning the voice of someone you know well. Familiarity grows over time. Reading the Bible with Jesus at the centre, making quiet space, praying and listening with other Christians can help us recognise what sounds like him and what does not.
An impression should be tested. Does it agree with Scripture and the life and teaching of Jesus? Does it produce love, truth, freedom and the good of others? Can it be weighed by mature and trustworthy people? God’s voice should not be used to manipulate someone, silence questions or make our own wishes sound unquestionable.
At The Lakes Church, we encourage people to say, ‘I think God may be saying this,’ rather than claiming certainty. We can listen expectantly and still admit that we may be mistaken. Humility is part of good discernment.
If you have questions, you can ask us anything at https://thelakes.org.au/contact-us/