I have been asked this questions a few times and decided to address it in my blog today. “Many of us claim to hear God’s voice, and He often speaks to each person differently based on their unique experiences and interpretations. He meets us at the spiritual level we are at. Let’s explore what the voice of God sounds like and how He communicated with various individuals in the Holy Bible:”
- Gentle and Whispering
- In 1 Kings 19:11-12, God speaks to Elijah not through wind, earthquake, or fire, but in a “still small voice” or gentle whisper, illustrating that God’s communication can be quiet and subtle.
- Powerful and Majestic
- Psalm 29:4 declares, “The voice of the Lord is powerful; the voice of the Lord is full of majesty.” This suggests that when God speaks, His voice carries authority and strength.
- Clear and Direct
- God often communicates in a straightforward manner, providing clear guidance. For example, in Acts 9:4, Jesus addresses Saul directly, asking, “Saul, Saul, why are you persecuting me?” This demonstrates a personal and direct way of speaking.
- Comforting and Reassuring
- God’s voice is often described as one that brings peace and comfort. In Isaiah 41:10, He says, “Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you…”
- Authoritative and Commanding
- When God speaks, His voice can command attention and obedience. In Genesis 1:3, God says, “Let there be light,” and creation responds immediately, indicating His authority over all things.
- Guiding and Instructive
- God’s voice serves to guide and instruct, as seen in John 10:27, where Jesus says, “My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me.” This highlights a relationship where believers recognize and respond to His guidance.
Ultimately, God’s voice may be experienced differently by individuals. It can be gentle, powerful, clear, comforting, authoritative, and instructive. Many believers describe their encounters with God’s voice as a profound sense of peace, clarity, and direction in their lives.
Personally, when I hear His voice, it is subtle and often feels like a whisper. I would say He mainly speaks to me through dreams and visions. Sometimes, it’s difficult to describe this when people ask me about it. The best way I can explain it is that the more time you spend in His presence and His Word and the more you consecrate yourself before Him, the better you recognize His voice and become sensitive to it. I thank the God of Israel for spiritual eyes to see and spiritual ears to hear what thus says the Lord in the land of the living.
Another unique way God speaks through people is by randomly opening the Holy Bible to certain scriptures. I’ve also heard accounts of people receiving messages through license plates, street signs, and even billboards. It’s truly incredible! I often hear timely scriptures that resonate perfectly with my needs during specific times and seasons. I remember one occasion when I pulled into a parking lot, and right in front of me was a scripture verse on a license plate. Let me tell you, it was right on time. I tell you the truth, He never ceases to amaze me. Hallelujah!
Even this week, I turned on the TV and saw a young lady with an angelic face singing a song that goes, “I don’t wanna leave this moment, I’m longing for a fresh encounter; is there anything you want to show me?” Instantly, I was taken into the presence of the Lord. I cherish these priceless moments—truly, something money can’t buy! Thank you, King Jesus! He can indeed use a song, a person, a billboard, or whatever He chooses to bless our souls and speak to us.
How does God communicate with His people:
- Through Scripture
The Bible is the primary way God reveals His character and will. It provides guidance, teaching, and correction.- 2 Timothy 3:16-17: “All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness.”
- Through Prayer
Prayer is a two-way communication where believers can express their thoughts, seek guidance, and listen for God’s responses.- Jeremiah 33:3: “Call to me and I will answer you…”
- Through the Holy Spirit
The Holy Spirit helps believers understand God’s will and reminds them of His teachings.- John 14:26: “But the Helper, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, he will teach you all things…”
- Through Creation
God’s creation reveals His glory and attributes, inviting reflection and understanding.- Psalm 19:1: “The heavens declare the glory of God…”
- Through Dreams and Visions
God has used dreams and visions to convey messages, particularly in biblical times.- Job 33:14: “For God speaks in one way, and in two, though man does not perceive it.”
- Through Prophets and Leaders
God has historically spoken through prophets, pastors, and spiritual leaders who convey His messages to the people.- Hebrews 1:1-2: “Long ago, at many times and in many ways, God spoke to our fathers by the prophets…”
- Through Circumstances
God can guide individuals through the events and circumstances of life, leading them in specific directions.- Proverbs 16:9: “The heart of man plans his way, but the Lord establishes his steps.”
- Through Other Believers
God often uses fellow believers to provide encouragement, wisdom, and counsel.- Proverbs 27:17: “Iron sharpens iron, and one man sharpens another.”
- Through Worship and Community
Gathering in worship can create a space for God to speak through collective prayer, teaching, and spiritual experiences.
Conclusion
God’s communication is diverse, reflecting His desire for a personal relationship with His people. By engaging with these methods, believers can deepen their understanding of God’s will and presence in their lives.
1 Samuel 3:8-9 …Then Eli realized that the Lord was calling the boy. So, Eli told Samuel, “Go and lie down, and if he calls you, say, ‘Speak, Lord, for your servant is listening.’”