About a month ago my alarm went off at 5am like it does every morning, signaling the start a new work day. I got up, showered and went down to our office to spend some time with my God before grabbing a quick bite and running off to work. Little did I know God was about to bless me with practical insight on listening to His voice that would change my relationship with Him for the rest of my life.
Lying on my side of our desk was a book my wife had been reading Having a Mary Spirit: Allowing God To Change Us From the Inside Out by Joanna Weaver. I did not know if my wife had left it on my side of the desk on purpose, but I thought I would not disappoint her if she had. So I picked it up and turned to the page where a folded paper had been placed.
At the bottom of the page was a grey section titled “Being Led.” The title caught my eye, and the grey section appeared as a summary of important information. Since I am all about getting and assimilating facts quickly (I guess it’s my Sports Center mentality), I began to read.
In this section, 7 points were listed on how to listen to the Holy Spirit’s leading. These points had such an influence on me that when I heard about the 40 day prayer and devotional time, I felt God prodding me to share them with you. So here I am putting into practice what you are about to read below. Here are the seven points:
1) Tune Your Heart to His voice – God’s spirit speaks in a still small voice. Often times He uses our own thoughts to direct us. The more we practice listening for him, the more likely we are to recognize His leading.
2) Mind the Checks – When we feel a strong doubt whether a particular course is right, we should simply wait. Direction from God will strengthen with time. Direction not from God will fade and disappear.
3) Test the Message – We must check any inner direction we receive against scripture. If the message aligns, then godly advice, providential circumstances, and common sense can also be helpful.
4) Watch for Repetition – God’s message is often confirmed through sermons, other people, and miraculous provision. If you do not listen the first time God will repeat His message.
5) Take the Next Step – Although God gives direction, He almost never lays out a road map. He intends our life to be a walk of faith. As we obey one step at a time, the next step becomes clearer in view.
6) Beware of the Spirit’s Withdrawal – Our disobedience hinders the Holy Spirit’s work. If He is insistent that you obey, do it - or you will feel a lack of the Spirit’s presence.
7) Ask for and Expect Wisdom – Do not rule out God’s help with the small details of life. Ask God to lead you and look for the answers in faith knowing He is eager to help.
A Prayer: God help me and my GBC brothers and sisters to hear Your voice and be led by your Spirit.
~Dave Porterfield
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