Do We Struggle to Hear God’s Voice?
Do you ever feel like trying to find God’s voice is kind of like trying to find Waldo? Like you have to sift through a crowded mind of emotions, fears, or self-judgment to find God’s voice in all of it?
If so, you are not alone…
Discerning God’s voice can be one of the most challenging aspects of faith, especially with the many distractions that can easily get in the way. But the good news is that God wants us to recognize his voice and has created many ways for us to find our way through a crowded mind with 7 ways to test and discern His voice:
Does It Align with Scripture?
Know that God will NEVER contradict His Word. His voice is always consistent with the Bible. If what you hear or sense aligns with references from God’s principles- Wisdom, Patience, and Righteousness, to name a few, then it’s most likely from Him.
BUT if the thought encourages selfishness, fear, pride, or even actions that go against God’s principles, it may be your voice (or even an outside influence.)
“God is not a man, that He should lie, nor a son of man, that He should change His mind.”
-Numbers 23:19
When in doubt, always turn to His Word in Scripture and see if what you’re hearing lines up with God's truth.
Does It Bring Peace?
God’s voice brings peace, even when he disciplines us or calls us to step outside our comfort zones. If what you are hearing fills you with anxiety, confusion, or fear, it may be your own worries talking.
“And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus”
-Philippians 4:7
God Doesn’t operate in chaos. He is a God of peace. If you’re feeling unsettled, take a moment to pray and ask for clarity.
Does It Require Faith and Dependence on God?
God often calls us beyond what we think we’re capable of. His plans require us to have faith and reliance on Him, and not just our own strength. If the voice you hear is pushing you towards complete self-reliance (meaning only to rely on yourself), it may not be from God.
“Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding.”
-Proverbs 3:5
God stretches us to grow. If what you’re feeling challenges you to trust Him more, it could be His voice guiding you forward.
Is It Leading You Toward Love and Growth?
God’s voice always leads us towards love, obedience, and spiritual maturity. If you are feeling the push to make you resentful, prideful, or self-focused, it may not be from Him.
“But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control.”
-Galatians 5:22-23
God’s voice produces good fruit. If the thought or calling brings out bitterness, impatience, or disconnection from others, it may not be from Him.
Does It Stand the Test of Time?
God’s voice is persistent and consistent. If you feel strongly about something, give it time. God isn’t in a rush, and He won’t pressure you into hasty decisions. Your voice, on the other hand, may be impulsive and most of the time driven by emotions.
“For still the vision awaits its appointed time; it hastens to the end-it will not lie. If it seems slow, wait for it; it will surely come; it will not delay.”
-Habakkuk 2:3
If a thought or decision keeps coming back to you with peace and clarity, that’s a strong sign it could be God.
Have You Sought Wise Counsel?
God often speaks through godly people in our lives. People who have a strong walk with God and commit to his Word. If you are unsure, seek advice from trusted spiritual mentors, pastors, or fellow believers who are rooted in faith.
“Plans fail for lack of counsel, but with many advisers, they succeed.”
-Proverbs 15:22
Sometimes, we need to seek outside perspectives to confirm what God is already speaking in us.
Is It Bringing You Closer to God?
Ultimately, the best way to discern God’s voice is to ask: Is this drawing me closer to Him? This is my favorite go-to question on my walk with God because it really is about getting closer not further. God’s voice will always encourage us to deepen our relationship with Him through prayer, trust, and obedience.
If what you’re hearing leads you away from Him, making you feel distant in your faith and from God, or even causing you to rely on yourself rather than Him, it’s probably not from God.
How to Practice Hearing God’s Voice
Hearing God’s voice takes time and patience. He often speaks in a gentle whisper (1 Kings 19:12), not in loud, dramatic ways. The more we spend time in Scripture, prayer, and stillness, the more we get to know His voice.
If you are still unsure, don’t rush it. Pray, seek guidance, and ask God for clarity. He wants you to hear Him and He will make His voice known in His perfect timing.
What About You?
Have you ever struggled with knowing if you’re hearing God’s voice or your own? Share your thoughts in the comments- I’d love to hear how you navigate this in your faith journey!
