The God Who Speaks

One of the most foundational and reliable ways God speaks to his people is through his written word: the Bible. Scripture is not simply an ancient record of religious thought, but God’s inspired revelation, given to teach us who he is, what he has done, and what he calls us to do, be, and become. When we read the Bible and are open to hearing from God, the Holy Spirit can breathe life into the words, bringing them to reflect personally on our circumstances.

Paul tells Timothy:

“All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, equipped for every good work.”
(2 Timothy 3:16-17)

This “God-breathed” quality of Scripture means it carries the voice of God himself. It not only records what God said at the time that it was written, but continues to speak as a living message. The writer of Hebrews describes this:

“For the word of God is living and active, sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing to the division of soul and of spirit, of joints and of marrow, and discerning the thoughts and intentions of the heart.”
(Hebrews 4:12)

The Psalms repeatedly affirm that God’s word can provide wisdom, comfort, and guidance to us in the now:

“Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.”
(Psalm 119:105)
“The unfolding of your words gives light; it imparts understanding to the simple.”
(Psalm 119:130)

Jesus himself submitted to the authority of Scripture. When tempted by Satan, he responded,

“It is written, ‘Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that comes from the mouth of God.’”
(Matthew 4:4)

When we meditate on Scripture - slowly reading, praying over, and reflecting on what we read - we create space to hear God’s personal word to us. For example, verses often stand out with fresh significance; a passage we’ve read many times may suddenly seem to speak directly to a question or struggle; sometimes in worship or prayer, a verse may come to mind, bringing reassurance or conviction. These moments are not random - they are the Holy Spirit reminding us of what God has said (see John 14:26).

If we want to recognise God’s voice more clearly in other ways, we must first become familiar with how he has spoken consistently in his word. Scripture is the standard by which all other impressions of how God speaks must be tested, helping us to discern what is right and true and to recognise God’s voice in our lives.

Reflection:
As you read the Bible, take time to ask, “Lord, what are you saying to me through this passage?” Perhaps you could keep a journal of verses that speak to your circumstances.