“Learning To Discern His Word To Better Understand Our World”

Understanding God’s Communication

As believers, we often seek to understand when and how God speaks to us. We long for guidance, reassurance, and direction from our Creator. While there is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question, there are some principles we can follow to discern God’s voice and understand His Word.

Repentance and Belief in Jesus

A foundational step in hearing from God is repenting from our sins and placing our faith in Jesus Christ. When we accept Jesus as our Savior, we enter into a personal relationship with Him. This relationship opens the door for us to hear and understand God’s voice.

Proverbs 1:23 NKJV says, “Turn at my rebuke; surely I will pour out my spirit on you; I will make my words known to you.” This verse highlights the importance of repentance and the role of the Holy Spirit in revealing God’s words to us. When we turn away from our sinful ways and surrender to God, His Spirit dwells within us, guiding and teaching us.

The Role of the Holy Spirit

God communicates with us through the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit is our helper, counselor, and guide. Jesus promised His disciples that the Holy Spirit would come to them after His departure and would teach them all things (John 14:26).

When we have the Holy Spirit dwelling within us, we have a direct line of communication with God. The Spirit speaks to our hearts, illuminates Scripture, and provides us with wisdom and understanding. It is through the Holy Spirit that we can discern God’s voice and understand His Word.

Principles for Understanding God’s Word

While the Holy Spirit plays a crucial role in understanding God’s Word, there are some principles we can follow to enhance our understanding:

1. Study Diligently

God’s Word is a treasure trove of wisdom and knowledge. By studying the Scriptures diligently, we can gain a deeper understanding of God’s character, His will, and His ways. Regular Bible study, with the guidance of the Holy Spirit, allows us to grow in our knowledge and discernment.

2. Seek God’s Guidance

When approaching the Scriptures, it is essential to seek God’s guidance. Before diving into a passage, pray and ask the Holy Spirit to illuminate the truth and reveal any insights that are relevant to your current situation or need. God desires to speak to us personally through His Word.

3. Context is Key

Understanding the context of a passage is crucial for interpreting it correctly. Consider the historical and cultural background, the intended audience, and the literary genre. This helps to avoid misinterpretation and ensures that we grasp the intended meaning of the text.

4. Use Reliable Resources

There are numerous resources available to aid in understanding the Bible. Commentaries, Bible dictionaries, and concordances can provide valuable insights into the historical and cultural context, as well as the original languages. However, it is important to use reliable resources from trusted sources.

5. Meditate and Reflect

Meditation involves pondering and reflecting on God’s Word. It is a practice of quieting our hearts and minds to listen to God’s voice. As we meditate on Scripture, the Holy Spirit can bring deeper understanding and revelation to our hearts.

Conclusion

Understanding when God speaks to us and comprehending His Word is a lifelong journey. It requires a genuine relationship with Jesus, the indwelling of the Holy Spirit, and a commitment to diligent study and seeking God’s guidance. As we repent from our sins and believe in our Savior Jesus, God’s Spirit will work in us, revealing His words and guiding us in all truth.