How Do I Know if Its God’s Voice or My Own?
How Do I Know if It’s God’s Voice or My Own?
Christians often describe “hearing God’s voice” as stepping out in faith—acting on a prompting with the belief that God will guide the outcome. Romans 8:28 is a steady anchor in this process: “And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose.” Even when we misinterpret His direction, God can still use our sincere efforts for good.
But how do you tell the difference between God’s voice and your own thoughts? The answer is deeply personal and grows out of your relationship with Him. My own journey taught me this through experience.
Learning to Recognize God’s Voice
Years ago, I knew something in my life needed to change, but I couldn’t identify what. I set aside a few days alone to pray and seek clarity. After arriving at the hotel, I asked God to show me what to do. I felt prompted to read the book of John. As I read, I was reminded of God’s love for all people and Jesus’ invitation into a real relationship with Him. It was a foundation—but not the full answer.
Next, I sensed I should read the book of Acts. Acts is about spreading the message of Jesus and the birth of the early church. Immediately, the word missions came to mind.
But I owned a business—a sizable one—with employees, a partner, bankers, and patients. How could I possibly be called to missions with so many responsibilities? I set the thought aside, but the story didn’t end there.
Confirmation Through Circumstances
When I returned home, I felt drawn to read a book I had bought years earlier: If You Were God, Would You Choose You? by Rick Renner. I read the entire book in four hours. Then I checked my mail from the days I’d been gone. In the Bible school newsletter was a notice: Rick Renner was looking for teachers in Moscow, Russia.
My heart leaped. I recognized that feeling as the Holy Spirit’s confirmation. I said out loud, “That’s it.”
Fast-forward: I moved to Russia, eight hours ahead of my home time zone, and taught in the seminary there for about three years. After hours, I continued running my business remotely. During that time, my business grew from two nursing facilities to seven.
What This Taught Me About Hearing God
If you want to hear God’s voice, seek Him intentionally. Spend time learning how He speaks to you personally. Sometimes you’ll follow a prompting and everything will fall into place. Other times, you’ll think it’s God and it won’t work out the way you expected.
Both experiences matter.
Pay attention to:
- What the prompting felt like
- Where you sensed it—your heart, not just your mind
- How God used the outcome, even if it wasn’t what you thought
God honors a sincere heart. Even when you misstep, He can turn it into something good for you or someone else (Romans 8:28).
If you’d like to explore how God may be speaking in your life, reach out at shapingmemories.net.