Part 3 in our "Deeper Toward God" Series

Who here has ever wondered if you are hearing God? [raise hands?] We might liken the idea to hearing someone walk in the door at home, when we ask, “Is that you?” to confirm that it is really who we think it is and not someone else we might not be expecting. If you have ever asked that question, “Is that you?” when you are talking to a person, have you ever thought about using it with God? When have you stopped what you are doing and said, “God, is that your voice?”

We can be more assured that we hear God when we know we are focused on God and God alone, such as in deep prayer, and also when we have tested what we have heard against God’s character, which we have studied and experienced. Third, we should pay attention to what is going on around us.

May you be blessed to focus on the ray of hope that the authors of the Bible still find in the most difficult times: “The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases, his mercies never come to an end” (Lam. 3:22). First, you know that God is with us, no matter what. God’s love does not cease. Second, knowing that God has not left us, you feel prone to pray and listen to what God tells you while you are not focused on other things. You are patient in prayer and do not give up. You test everything that you hear against God’s character. And third, you listen to other ways that God may communicate with you that is not through direct prayer. How do you know that God is the voice you hear? Keep listening. Do not end your prayer there. Keep your ears and eyes open. Pray more about it, and watch for God to confirm things in other ways. God closes doors and opens windows, places things before you in your path especially when you need them most, and guides you in your steps. May you be blessed to know the presence and the power of God through your persistency in prayer.