How to Hear from God

“Who then, is the man that fears the Lord? He will instruct him in the way chosen for him” (Psalm 25:12). Sometimes it can seem as if God withholds direction from us when we are trying to know His will. But that’s not the way God operates. He wants those who believe and trust in Him to have clear direction. “For the message of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God” (1Corinthians 1:18). The following steps help us to hear His voice and know His will.

Clear the path: Our own sin and what it is that we want are the two main obstacles that hinder judgment. To receive clear guidance from God, we must repent of all known sin and make our desires second to His. “Let nothing move you. Always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord, because you know that your labor is not in vain” (1Corinthians 15:58).

Be patient and wait: It takes a great deal of strength, contentment and patience to stand, be still, and wait upon the Lord. “Wait for the Lord; be strong and take heart and wait for the Lord” (Psalm 27:14). If you rush ahead of God, you may miss His best: “Blessed is the man who perseveres under trial, because when he has stood the test, he will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love Him (James 1:12).

Persist in prayer: The Bible tells us to keep coming to the Lord with our requests and concerns. “Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God” (Philippians 4:6). As we continue to pray, He will gradually eliminate anything confusing and unnecessary until we come fully into alignment with His will. “You turned my wailing into dancing; you removed my sackcloth and clothed me with joy, that my heart may sing to you and not be silent. O Lord my God, I will give you thanks forever (Psalm 30:11).

Meditate on the Word: The Bible has an answer for every need, and the Holy Spirit knows just how to point us in the right direction: “He humbled you, causing you to hunger and then feeding you the manna, which neither you nor your fathers had known, to teach you that man does not live on bread alone but on every word that comes from the mouth of the Lord” (Deuteronomy 8:3). So often when we’re faced with a difficult decision, all we want from the Lord is a quick answer. Don’t let the urgency of your need keep you from enjoying the intimacy of His presence as you seek His will.