Understanding How to Hear and Respond to God’s Voice
Have you ever wondered what it really means to “listen to God” or “hear what God is saying”? Sometimes, spiritual teachings can sound complicated, but the message here is actually very practical and down-to-earth. Let’s break it down in simple terms.
What Does “I Will Hear” Mean?
When the psalmist says, “I will hear,” he’s talking about paying close attention to whatever message God wants to send—whether that’s through wise people, life’s circumstances, or even through your own prayers. It’s like saying, “I’m going to be alert and really listen for what God wants to tell me.”
How Do We Hear God?
God communicates in different ways. It could be through:
· Spiritual leaders or teachers
· Events and situations in your life
· The inner voice or feeling you get when you pray sincerely
The key is to be open and ready to notice whenever God is trying to get your attention. Don’t rush—take time to reflect and wait for an answer.
What Should We Expect From God?
The passage assures us that God wants to speak “peace” to people who are truly trying to do what’s right—not just anyone who claims to follow God, but those who show kindness, mercy, and fairness to others. If you’re genuinely aiming to live a good life, treating others well and staying faithful, you can expect God to guide you with comfort and peace.
Don’t Go Back to Old Mistakes
But there’s an important catch: this promise of peace is for those who turn away from their bad habits and don’t go back to them. The passage warns that returning to old sins (or “folly,” as it’s called here) after you’ve been forgiven and helped by God is not just disappointing—it’s actually foolish. It’s like finishing a tough workout, cleaning up, and then jumping in the mud again. Why undo the good that’s been done?
If you start slipping back into those old ways, it’s not just you who suffers. The passage says that God may withdraw that comfort and let you face the consequences—both in your life now and in the future.
The Bottom Line
· Be willing to listen for God’s message, in whatever form it comes.
· Expect peace and comfort if you’re genuinely trying to live a good, kind life.
· Don’t fall back into unhealthy habits or old mistakes; that can undo the good that’s been done for you.
· Remember, real wisdom is not just hearing good advice, but following it and sticking with it.
In everyday life, this means paying attention, being open to change, and holding on to the peace that comes from doing what’s right. God is always ready to speak peace—but it’s up to us to listen and live in a way that keeps that peace in our hearts.
Minister A Francine Green
August 2025
afrancinegreen.com 