33 – Jonathan - Hearing God's Voice: Discernment and Patience in Your Walk of Faith
“Thank you very much for your insight on this brother Michael. It’s not the first time I’ve been foolish, but I’m glad I was caught early on this. God bless you!
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That was Jonathan’s reply after reaching out to me regarding being confused about hearing from God, or his own imagination, regarding stepping into a romantic relationship with an unbeliever, with the expectation that she would eventually come to Christ herself.
Hearing God's Voice: Discernment and Patience in Your Walk of Faith
Are you struggling to hear God's voice? Do you feel like you’re constantly second-guessing whether it's your own thoughts or truly God speaking? Dear friend, you’re not alone. Many, especially new believers, face this challenge. It's easy to confuse our desires and imagination with divine guidance. Jeremiah 17:9 reminds us, “The heart is deceitful above all things and beyond cure. Who can understand it?”
Our flesh, corrupted by sin, can lead us astray. We may yearn for things contrary to God's will, even believing He's leading us towards them. But true guidance comes from knowing God intimately. This requires time, patience, and a deep dive into His Word. Like Mary sitting at Jesus' feet (Luke 10:39), we must dedicate ourselves to studying and absorbing Scripture. This process takes years, not days. The disciples themselves walked with Jesus for three and a half years before being entrusted with their own ministries. It takes time to develop spiritual maturity and distinguish between good and evil.
Following Jesus isn't about doing crazy things in His name. It’s about knowing Him. The whole point of Christianity is to have a relationship with God. "I am the vine; you are the branches. If a man remains in me and I in him, he will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing" (John 15:5 NIV84). This abiding in Christ is through the Holy Spirit, who empowers us to live like Him.
If you find yourself getting ahead of God, driven by your own desires, take a pause. Repent, ask for His forgiveness and protection, and return to the basics. Be still before the Lord. Immerse yourself in the Gospels. Following Jesus is a marathon, not a sprint. Wait for His instructions. Wait for Him to reveal Himself and His will to you. He will, in His perfect timing, guide your steps and give you wisdom if you ask for it (James 1:5). God understands your eagerness to obey and respects your desire to follow Him. He is pleased by your enthusiasm. But true obedience comes from a heart surrendered to His will, not driven by our own. Trust in His timing, grow in your faith, and find your delight in Him. You will learn to recognize His voice as you walk with Him in truth.
