Sunday, July 20, 2025
Isaiah 30:21
Your own ears will hear him. Right behind you a voice will say, "This is the way you should go," whether to the right or to the left.
One of the most personal aspects of our faith is recognizing God's voice.
Jesus tells us in John 16:13, "When the Spirit of truth comes, he will guide you into all truth." But how do we know it's his voice? With so many thoughts, opinions, and emotions swirling in our minds, it's easy to wonder: Was that really God?
The good news is, God wants to be known. We don't have to guess or be afraid of making a mistake. Galatians 5:22-23 provides a filter. One way we can recognize God's voice is by looking at the fruit it produces. This scripture reminds us that the Spirit leads us toward love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. If what we're sensing aligns with these qualities, it’s likely we’re hearing from him.
When we learn God's tone and heart through Scripture, prayer, and time with him, we begin to recognize when it's truly him speaking.
As we look ahead to this week and work on discerning God’s voice over the noise of our minds and the world, be ready to consider how God might already be speaking to you. Remember, we're not just listening for a sound, we're leaning into a deeper relationship with God.
Discussion Questions:
Ice Breaker: What's a voice you recognize instantly, even if you haven't heard it in years (a family member, friend, favorite actor)?
How can we help each other grow in recognizing and following God's voice?
Read Galatians 5:22-23: Which fruit of the Spirit do you see growing in your life right now? Which one feels more challenging this season?
What is one step you feel prompted to take to begin discerning the voice of God over the noise of the world?
Reflect and Respond: How might recognizing God's voice through the Fruits of the Spirit help you make a decision or navigate something you're facing? Journal about how you feel God is speaking to you personally.
Prayer:
Heavenly Father, help me quiet the noise so I can better hear your voice. Teach me to recognize your Spirit and follow your truth. Holy Spirit, the answer is yes - what's your invitation? Amen.
Series Theme Verse:
Psalm 85:8
I listen carefully to what God the Lord is saying, for he speaks peace to his faithful people. But let them not return to their foolish ways.
This post was written by Lori Tuckerman, Director of Content for the Daily LivingItOut.