How do we recognise God’s voice?

14th january 2024

This Sunday’s readings tell us about God’s call. One question arises in relation to the call of the young Samuel: How do I recognize God’s voice? How do I know if an idea comes from God or if it’s just an idea in my head?

You can ask yourself 7 questions to help you discern whether an idea comes from God or not – if it comes from God, all 7 answers must be affirmative. 

1.​Does my idea agree with the Bible?

If my idea contradicts God’s word, then I know I’m wrong, it doesn’t come from God. The truth, the word of God does not change! God’s word remains, it is eternal. The Bible says: “Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will not pass away.” (Luke 21:33) and also: “If we ourselves, or an angel from heaven, preach to you a gospel other than the one we preached to you, let him be accursed” (Galatians 1:8).

2.​Does this idea make me more like Jesus? 

Jesus is our model. In my life as a Christian, I am invited to think and act like Jesus. When you have an idea, run it through the sieve “WWJDIMP” “What Would Jesus Do In My Place?” 

The letter of James is very clear on this subject: “But if you harbourbitter envy and selfish ambition in your hearts, do not boast about it or deny the truth.  Such ‘wisdom’ does not come down from heaven but is earthly, unspiritual, demonic.  For where you have envy and selfish ambition, there you find disorder and every evil practice. But the wisdom that comes from heaven is first of all pure; then peace-loving, considerate, submissive, full of mercy and good fruit, impartial and sincere.” (James 3:14-17)

3.​Is my idea confirmed by others? 

It’s important to test, to submit our idea to those closest to us. “For lack of guidance va nation falls,but victory is won through many advisors.”(Proverbs 11:14). Let’s not be afraid to ask our family members (who pray, who we think are wise) for their opinion. If they confirm it, it could be an idea that comes from God.

4.​Is this idea related to my competences?

Each of us has qualities, gifts and abilities. Paul wrote: “Let us use our different gifts in accordance with the grace God has given us.” (Romans 12:6). The idea I have is related to the abilities I have received from God. If we have an idea that is totally opposite to what we do, maybe it didn’t come from God! “For we are God’s creation, made in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared beforehand for us to do.” (Ephesians 2:10)

5.​Is this idea my responsibility? 

We don’t have to come up with ideas for someone else.“When Peter (the disciple Jesus loved) saw it, he said to Jesus, ‘Lord, what will become of this man? Jesus said to him, “If I want him to stay until I come, what does it matter to you? You, followme.” (John 21:21,22)

6.​Is my idea a conviction or a condemnation? 

Conviction comes from God and condemnation comes from Satan. If I have an idea and it produces in me a feeling of condemnation, of accusation, it doesn’t come from God. God doesn’t condemn or accuse, nor does he question my worth! Only the devil condemns. But God’s voice is a conviction, an invitation to change. “Come on, get up, let’s go together, I forgive you!” And with Jesus, we can change.

7.​Finally, does my idea produce peace in me? 

Often, the insights I can feel from God are an encouragement. If we feel overwhelmed, distressed, confused by this idea, it doesn’t come from God! It only comes from God if I feel joy and peace with this idea. “For God is not a God of disorder, but of peace” (1 Corinthians 14:33).

SFS

– Do a discernment exercise on an ongoing project.

– Use the “WWJDIMP” (“What Would Jesus Do In My Place?”).

– Ask the Holy Spirit to understand what God wants.