Listen

All of us are familiar with the voices of the people closest to us. Think of a family member or close friend. What does their voice sound like? What’s the tone and pitch? Is it harsh, or soft? Quick or slow? Do they have an accent? Could you recognize their voice over the phone? Even now as you read this, you can probably hear their voice in your head.

Voices carry authority. Words of advice coming from the voice of a friend or parent will carry a different weight for us than the same words coming from a stranger. So when it comes to hearing the voice of the Holy Spirit, it’s vital to identify who is actually speaking. Is it the Spirit? Our own desires? Or something else entirely?

Every person has unique vocal qualities. In the same way, the Holy Spirit’s voice has unique qualities that will help you know it’s Him. So what does He sound like?

Language

“The Bible” - (2 Timothy 3:16) The Holy Spirit will never contradict the Bible. The better you know the Bible, the better you will be able to recognize His voice.

Tone

“Still Small Voice” (1 Kings 19:11-12) - The Bible describes His voice as a whisper. It’s not a literal whisper but a voice that’s hard to hear when you’re busy.

Pitch

“Peaceful” (Psalm 23) - His voice will help you find peace even when chaos is all around you. A shelter in the storm.

Resonance

“Affirmation” - His voice will resonate with other Christians. It’s helpful to affirm His voice with Christian friends.

Rhythm

“Timing” - His voice will often speak to you in your circumstances. Keep a lookout for miraculous coincidences.

Give yourself time to practice learning the voice of the Holy Spirit. One day His voice will be so familiar it will be second nature to recognize it.

The Bible says pursuing the Holy Spirit is something to seek out actively (Ephesians 5:18-19). Intentionally put yourself in a position so you can hear His voice. Come to God in prayer with an expectant heart that He will speak to you and lead you.

Here are some key ways to position yourself to hear the Holy Spirit:

• Be thankful (Psalm 100:4)
• Say sorry for anything you’ve done wrong (Psalm 66:18)
• Silence Satan (James 4:7)
• Listen to the still small voice of the Holy Spirit (1 Kings 19:11-12)

Learning to hear the Holy Spirit takes time and commitment. Don’t give up just because you don’t hear anything straight away. Be intentional. Find a quiet place today and spend 15 minutes actively seeking the Holy Spirit’s voice.