Key Verse: John 10:27 – “My sheep hear My voice, and I know them, and they follow Me.”
Pre-Introduction: Reflecting on Last Week
- Last week’s question: Why pray if God already knows?
- Prayer isn’t for God’s information — it’s for our transformation.
- This week flows from that: If prayer is conversation… how do I recognize when God is speaking?
Introduction: The Question We All Ask
- “Is this God or just my own thoughts?”
- The Christian walk requires both Scripture knowledge and Spirit sensitivity.
- God does speak — the question is whether we’ve learned to hear Him.
I. You Can’t Hear God If You Don’t Walk With Him
Scriptures:
- John 15:4 – “Remain in me, as I also remain in you…”
- Galatians 5:16 – “So I say, walk by the Spirit…”
Points:
- God is not silent — we’re often too distant to hear.
- Hearing requires abiding — spiritual ears are trained through closeness.
Application:
- Time in the Word and prayer are not optional — they are how we tune in.
- God’s silence may be His way of saying, “Come closer.”
II. The Holy Spirit Convicts, Guides, and Confirms
Scriptures:
- John 16:13 – “When the Spirit of truth comes, he will guide you into all the truth…”
- 2 Timothy 3:16 – “All Scripture is God-breathed… rebuking, correcting, training…”
The Spirit Speaks Through:
- Conviction – A holy nudge that something must change.
- Direction – Step-by-step guidance that aligns with Scripture.
- Confirmation – Repetition through Word, counsel, and peace.
Illustration:
- Like freeway signs — the closer the turn, the more frequent the signs.
Application:
- Don’t ignore repeated prompts.
- Don’t rush ahead on a single sign, but don’t stall when God keeps confirming.
III. God Rarely Reveals Everything — But He Reveals Enough
Scriptures:
- Psalm 119:105 – “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.”
- Genesis 12:1 – Abraham was called to go, but not told where.
Points:
- God gives enough for the next step — not the whole map.
- Faith is grown in obedience to the unknown.
Application:
- Stop waiting for full clarity — start obeying what’s already been made clear.
IV. God’s Voice Will NEVER Contradict His Word
Scriptures:
- Isaiah 8:20 – “If they do not speak according to this word, there is no light in them.”
- 2 Timothy 3:16–17 – “All Scripture… so that the servant of God may be thoroughly equipped.”
Points:
- God’s voice will never go against Scripture.
- Culture, emotion, or worldly wisdom do not override the Bible.
Application:
- Always validate what you hear through the Word.
- Ask: “Does this reflect the character and commands of God?”
V. God’s “No” or Silence May Be the Answer You Need
Scriptures:
- 2 Corinthians 12:8–9 – “My grace is sufficient for you…”
- Proverbs 3:5–6 – “Trust in the Lord with all your heart…”
Points:
- Silence or closed doors aren’t punishment — they’re protection or preparation.
- “No” can be the most loving answer God gives.
Application:
- Rest in His wisdom, even when you don’t understand.
- Trust is proven not in clarity, but in obedience during quiet seasons.
Conclusion: The More You Walk, the Clearer You Hear
Summary:
- God speaks through His Word, Spirit, people, and peace.
- His voice convicts, guides, and confirms.
- His leading is always step-by-step and always Scripture-aligned.
- Even His “No” is grace.
Final Challenge:
- Stop waiting for dramatic signs.
- Spend time in His presence every day.
- Tune your heart to the Shepherd’s voice.
- And when He hands you a shovel… start digging in faith.
Full sermon: