Knowing the Voice of God for Yourself
What is God saying to me?
When God gives you an assignment, staying focused on His voice is crucial. Learn how to trust His direction and resist distractions with lessons from 1 Kings 13 and 1 Samuel 3.
In our walk with God, there are moments when He speaks directly to us, giving us an assignment or task that aligns with His divine purpose for our lives. These moments are sacred, personal, and specific. Yet, if we are not careful, other voices—whether well-meaning or not—can derail us from what God has spoken to us. The story of the young and older prophet in 1 Kings 13 offers a cautionary tale about the importance of discerning and staying true to God’s voice.
Stay on Task: The Lesson of the Young Prophet
In 1 Kings 13, the young prophet receives a clear directive from God not to eat bread or drink water in the place where he was sent to prophesy nor to return by the same path. Yet, an older prophet deceives him, claiming to have a word from the Lord that contradicts the original instruction. Tragically, the young prophet listens to the older prophet and suffers the consequences of disobedience.
This story teaches us that no matter how spiritual or gifted someone may appear, they were not present for God’s conversation with you. What God speaks to you is for you. Isaiah 55:11 reminds us that God’s word will not return void but will accomplish what He desires. Trust that what He has told you is sufficient, and remain steadfast in your obedience.
Trusting God in Every Season
Sometimes, our assignments might not look grand or glamorous. Perhaps God has called you to work at McDonald’s, Starbucks, or another place that doesn’t align with the lofty goals you envision. It’s easy to look at others and feel like their assignments are more significant. But remember, God’s plans are not measured by earthly standards. Colossians 3:23-24 encourages us, “Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters, since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward.”
God’s glory can manifest even in the smallest and seemingly insignificant tasks. When you trust Him, even the mundane becomes meaningful.
The Example of Eli and Samuel
In 1 Samuel 3, God speaks directly to the young Samuel, calling him by name. Initially, Samuel doesn’t recognize God’s voice and assumes it is Eli calling him. Yet, Eli, though experienced, does not have the conversation God is having with Samuel. Once Eli realizes what is happening, he wisely guides Samuel to respond to God directly: “Speak, Lord, for your servant is listening” (1 Samuel 3:9).
This interaction highlights the importance of recognizing and responding to God’s voice personally. While others may offer wisdom and guidance, your relationship with God is uniquely yours. Listen for His voice above all others.
Focus on the Assignment, Not the Location
God’s assignments often come with challenges or environments that may seem beneath us or unrelated to our dreams. Yet, these are the very places where God refines us, prepares us, and gets the glory. Proverbs 3:5-6 says, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.” Trust the process and the placement.
Don’t Lose Focus
The enemy’s strategy is often to distract and deter. He may use other people, circumstances, or even your own ambitions to pull you away from what God has instructed. Like Peter walking on water in Matthew 14:30, losing focus on Jesus can cause us to sink. Keep your eyes on the One who called you.
Conclusion: What Is God Saying to You?
God is not a respecter of persons, but He is intentional and specific about what He desires in the earth. When God speaks, He speaks to you for a reason. Others may have their assignments and giftings, but your call is uniquely yours. Lean into it. Pray for clarity, wisdom, and courage to remain obedient, even when it doesn’t make sense.
As you navigate your journey, ask yourself: What is God saying to me? Trust that His plan is for your good and His glory (Jeremiah 29:11). Stay the course, and experience the fullness of His purpose for your life.
