Yesterday we reflected on the Holy Spirit, as our inner witness of the voice of God and one of the main avenues through which God speaks to the believer. Today we will look at how we hear the voice of God through his written word. “In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God” (John 1:1). In this scripture, John made reference to Jesus as the word made flesh, to dwell among us. In essence, his reference is to the word being God himself manifested in the life of the believer. We know that the entrance of the word gives light and understanding to the simple (Psalm 119:130).
The word helps us to understand the ways of God, the principles of God, the heart of God and the mind of God. The written word is a good tool for us to measure whether or not, something that we hear originates from God or from the devil. “For the word of God is living and active, sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing to the division of soul and of spirit, of joints and of marrow, and discerning the thoughts and intentions of the heart” (Hebrews 4:12). If we get an impression and we want to confirm whether or not it is from our inner witness, we test it against the word.
This is why it is important to know what the word says, so that we can discern what we are hearing. Remember when the devil tried to tempt Jesus and he tried to twist the scripture to his own advantage. Jesus knew the word, so he was able refute what the devil was saying and recognise it as deception. “But he answered, “It is written, “‘Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that comes from the mouth of God (Matthew 4:4).”” Remember that even the devil knows scripture and even people who appear well meaning, can try to use scriptures to justify sinful behaviour.
One of the simplest ways to hear God speak through the written word, is through our own study and devotional quiet times. The Holy Spirit will help us while studying the bible, by revealing hidden truths. There are days when we are searching for an answer to questions. There maybe things that we are praying and asking God to reveal his will to us about. It is often during our personal study, when the answer is revealed through the word. Sometimes this can come in the form of a devotional or a written word of encouragement that someone shared. Let us continue to listen as God continues to speak.
A.P.-Y.
Devotional Inspirations 