Week 9
“Whenever he brings out his own sheep, he goes before them, and the sheep follow him, for they know his voice. They will not follow a stranger but will flee from him because they do not know his voice.” —John 10:4–5
The devil took Jesus into the holy city of Jerusalem and put him on the pinnacle of the temple. The devil said to him, “If you are the Son of God, throw yourself down, because it is written in the Scriptures, ‘He will put his angels in charge of you,’ and, ‘They will catch you in their hands, so that you will not hit your foot on a stone.’”
—Matt. 4:5–6
God may speak to each of us in unique ways. We must discern his voice carefully. Whatever you hear must be consistent with Scripture, but remember Satan quoted Scripture when tempting Jesus, so Scripture alone is not enough. We need the Holy Spirit’s guidance to discern rightly.
Sometimes it’s hard to know if a thought is from God, the enemy, or our imagination. Ask the Lord for clarity, especially if the message is unusual or seems different than how he normally speaks. Usually, God’s words bring peace, not anxiety or condemnation. If uncertain, God will confirm his word to you.
Reflection Questions
Think of a time when you thought God might be speaking to you but you were uncertain it was really God speaking. What did you think he was saying? What caused you to be unsure whether it was God?
What is the most unusual way God has spoken to you?
Lord, what are you teaching me in today’s reading?
Lord, what else have you said to me through thoughts, circumstances, conversations, emotions, or the work of the enemy?
Lord, what do you want me to do: At home? At work? In ministry?