God Conversations: 7 Days To Hearing God’s VoiceParaugs

The Voices in our Head: What if I get it wrong?

Probably the most serious concern we have in hearing God’s voice is this: what if I get it wrong? What if it was just a figment of my overactive imagination or something I made up? 

During Medieval times, church leaders were deeply concerned about preserving biblical truth. If the common people with their lack of education and sinful natures read the Bible for themselves, they could make mistakes. This was sacred Scripture containing profound theological truth. What if they got it wrong?

So they chained the Bibles to the pulpits and banned their translation from Latin into the common language. Only authorized priests could read and interpret the Scriptures. 

Could we get it wrong if we try to hear God’s voice? Yes, absolutely! But at what cost if we don’t? Fear of error amongst church leaders meant that multitudes of people could never get to know God for themselves through the pages of the Bible. 

So can we know then if what we’re hearing is from God? 

It’s such an important question, but it’s not a new one! The ancients faced the same problem and the good news is that God anticipated we would face it. In response, he has provided us with a number of safeguards so that we can know when a word is from God. We just need to learn to put them into practice. 

Of course, like any relationship, learning to recognize God’s voice takes time. We get to know it more as we learn about his character and the kinds of things he speaks about. Jesus promised we would be able to recognize his voice—and know it enough to follow. He described our relationship as a friendship, one that is defined by the things he tells us. We need to trust more in God’s ability to speak than our ability to listen. When our hearts are submitted to him, there is nothing to fear. 

Reflect: What concerns do you have in hearing from God?

Prayer: Lord, thank you that I live in a time when I can go directly to you. Please remove any fear that I have in hearing your voice.