We should all be actively cultivating a heightened awareness and receptiveness to God’s guidance. Where we are intentionally open to perceiving subtle impressions, thoughts, or feelings that can be interpreted are messages from God. Hearing God through quiet reflection can lead to a close relationship with Him is essential for His direction in our lives.
Intentional listening is making a conscious effort to quiet our minds and focusing on what God might be saying through prayer, meditation on His Word or simply spending time in quiet reflection.
Regularly reading and meditating on the Bible is considered the primary way God speaks to us.
The more time we spend in prayer and communion with God, the better equipped we become to recognize His voice.
Paying attention to our emotions and impressions regarding feelings and thoughts that could be God nudging us, like a sense of peace, conviction, or a strong inclination can be God speaking to us.
I will never forget one day I had an appointment in the city that was 2 hours away. I was at the gas station filled up my vehicle, and I felt an overwhelming sense of dread that I should call and reschedule, but I brushed it off. I drove the two hours. As I was pulling into the parking lot of the office, my phone began ringing. I answered it and it was the office telling me they needed to cancel my appointment and reschedule. Right then I knew I missed God guiding me in what I should have done.
Listening to differentiate between our own thoughts and desires and what truly comes from God, often by aligning our potential actions with scripture and seeking guidance from God is key.
When our sensitivity is focused on hearing from God, we will hear words from Him that others will not pick up.
From Pity to Praise 