Week 9
He said to the crowds, “When you see a cloud rising from the west, immediately you say, ‘A shower is coming,’ and so it happens. When a south wind blows, you say, ‘There will be scorching heat,’ and it happens. You hypocrites! You know how to interpret the appearance of the earth and the sky, but how is it that you don’t know how to interpret the present times?” —Luke 12:54–56
God speaks in many ways—through Scripture, thoughts, emotions, other people, and circumstances. Scripture shows he also speaks through angels, dreams, and even animals at times. This list isn’t exhaustive because God can communicate in infinite ways. Regardless of how we think he is speaking, we must carefully discern his message—and whether or not it is him speaking to us—the more unusual the message, the more important it is to exercise discernment. Having mature believers to help process what we hear helps prevent error and deepens understanding.
Reflection Questions
How does God most often speak to you?
How regularly have you “heard” God this past week outside of the Bible: several times each day, once daily, occasionally, or not at all? If you have heard him, what did he say?
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?