How to Hear the Holy Spirit
The primary ways believers can "hear" or discern the Holy Spirit
How do we hear the Holy Spirit? This can feel very subjective and create a reckless life that imperils us if not for the scriptures that gives guidance on something as supernatural and holy as hearing the Holy Spirit. For the sceptic who fears or is wary of the Holy Spirit and the fabulist who claims to hear the Spirit in unusually frequent of dramatic ways, God’s words give guidance on how to know you’re hearing the Holy Spirit and safeguards us from being presumptive. Here are the primary ways believers can "hear" or discern the Holy Spirit:
Through the Word of God - The Holy Spirit speaks primarily through Scripture, illuminating its truths and applying them to specific situations in your life. As you read, meditate on, and study the Bible, the Spirit reveals God’s will and provides clarity.
“All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness.” (II Timothy 3:16)
Through Inner Promptings - The Spirit speaks to your heart through impressions, thoughts, or a sense of conviction. These inner promptings often align with Scripture and point toward God-honoring actions. Pay attention to a sense of peace, unease, or clarity during prayer or decision-making.
“For those who are led by the Spirit of God are the children of God.” (Romans 8:14)
Through Prayer - During prayer, the Spirit may bring specific truths, insights, or guidance to your mind. He also helps when you don’t know how to pray, interceding on your behalf.
“Likewise the Spirit helps us in our weakness. For we do not know what to pray for as we ought, but the Spirit Himself intercedes for us with groanings too deep for words.” (Romans 8:26)
Through Godly Counsel - The Spirit may speak through wise, Spirit-filled believers who provide counsel and guidance. This can include pastors, mentors, or mature Christians who align their advice with God’s Word.
“Plans fail for lack of counsel, but with many advisers they succeed.” (Proverbs 15:22)
Through Circumstances - The Holy Spirit can guide through open or closed doors, aligning circumstances to confirm His leading. He uses life events to nudge you toward His will, but these should always align with Scripture.
“Paul and his companions were kept by the Holy Spirit from preaching the word in the province of Asia.” (Acts 16:6)
Through Conviction of Sin - The Spirit convicts you when you stray from God’s will, urging repentance and a return to obedience. This conviction often comes with clarity about what needs to change in your life.
“And when He comes, He will convict the world concerning sin and righteousness and judgment.” (John 16:8)
Through Peace - The Spirit gives peace when you are in alignment with God’s will, confirming His direction in your life. If you lack peace, it may be a signal to reconsider your choices.
“Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God...will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 4:6-7)
Through Worship - In times of worship, the Spirit often stirs your heart, revealing His presence and prompting you toward specific truths or actions. Notice that the betterment of those around you is the most vital determiner of whether you’ve heard the Spirit.
“God is spirit, and His worshipers must worship in the Spirit and in truth.” (John 4:24)
“Be filled with the Spirit, speaking to one another with psalms, hymns, and songs from the Spirit.” (Ephesians 5:18-19)
Below are a few summarizing practical steps that will give you clarity and confidence you are hearing from the Holy Spirit. Godspeed.
Practical Steps to Hear the Spirit:
Spend time daily in Scripture and prayer.
Practice listening in silence and waiting for God's guidance.
Seek godly counsel when discerning promptings.
Test all inner promptings or impressions against Scripture for alignment with God's character and will.
Obey immediately when you sense clear guidance from the Spirit. By growing in your relationship with God, you'll become more sensitive to the Holy Spirit's voice and guidance.
Karl
You can purchase a copy of Karl’s new book, Killing Sin, right here!