Archive for June, 2009

Hearing God’s Voice by Pastor Denzel Fenn


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The question that I have been asked most frequently in my half century of ministry is, “How can I know God’s will – how can I hear God’s voice?” Paul, in the Book of Romans wrote a great answer to that most important question.  He said, “I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that you present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable to God, which is your reasonable service.  And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God” (Romans 12:1-2). There are three basic premises in this text: 

1.    God has a plan for your life – you are not here without purpose.  God, who made you, has designed a destiny and purpose for you.

2.    God’s plan is good for you.  He loves you and His plan is good for you. It is not arduous as many people think.  If you follow His plan you will discover, “that His way is perfect” (Psalm 18:30).

3.    He wants you to know His plan.  God is not hiding it from you. If He has a plan then it makes sense that He wants you to know it so you can do it. 

How can I know God’s will? 

The first step is surrender – “that you present your bodies a living sacrifice.”  Sometimes we want God to show us His will and then we will decide whether we want to do it or not.  What He desires is that we surrender our lives to Him, to do whatever, and when we surrender unconditionally to Him the door is then opened to show us the way.  Proverbs 3:6  “…in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your paths. 

Second, we find His will in His Word.  The Bible is our guide book and map.  His Word provides the principles on which we can make godly decisions - His Word and His will will always be in agreement.  The Psalmist said, “Your word is a lamp unto my feet and a light unto my path” (Psalm 119:105). 

Third, we have the promise of the guidance of the Holy Spirit.  In the New Testament we have many examples of the Holy Spirit leading people: 

Luke 4:1 – “Jesus was led by the Spirit….”

Acts 8:29 – “Then the Spirit said to Philip….”

Acts 16:6 – “They were forbidden by the Holy Spirit….” 

When we gave our lives to Jesus, the Holy Spirit took up residence within us and now we have an internal guidance system. Romans 6:14 says, “for as many as are led by the Spirit of God, these are the sons of God.” 

Fourth, we hear God’s voice through prayer.  In prayer we talk to God and He talks to us.  James 1:5 says, “if any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all liberally and without reproach, and it will be given him.”  Psalm 143:10 is a prayer that says, “teach me to do your will.” 

Finally, seek the counsel of godly people.  Others have gone before and have wise counsel to offer us.  Proverbs 11:14 – “where there is no counsel, the people fall; but in the multitude of counsellors there is safety.  So seek out your pastor or a godly believer and let them help you hear His voice. 

And you will know you are in the centre of His will when a deep sense of peace fills your inner being. 

Listen for His voice.  He still speaks!