After teaching women’s Bible studies for years, a quiet but notable shift of excitement emerged when I devoted more time to writing. I grappled with this newfound discovery, feeling like I was betraying the gift of teaching. Many people successfully teach and write, but that wasn’t an option for me then. I kept the struggle to myself as I continued to seek God’s guidance and clarity for how He wanted me to use my time, energy, and resources.
One day, our associate pastor handed me a small red book on writing. He was cleaning out the office bookshelves and thought I might enjoy it. As he gave it to me, he added that I might find it helpful one day.
I knew God was trying to tell me something, so I sought wise counsel from a friend. Her words left an indelible mark on life: “You’re not betraying the gift of teaching; you’re simply going to use it in a different way.”
With those words, everything changed. God “spoke” to me through His Word, prayer, circumstances, and wise counsel.
So, how can you know when God is trying to tell you something? Let’s explore this topic with fresh eyes and hearts that desire to know and trust God, regardless of what He is trying to say to us.
What Does the Bible Advise When God Is Trying to Tell You Something?
The Bible gives us direction, much like a map. Back in the day, when maps were unfolded and spread out, it gave an overall view of an area with various options for reaching a destination.
Likewise, as believers, the Bible gives us foundational verses for daily life that, when followed, guide us in making wise choices overall. One of those verses is Matthew 6:33, “But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.”
With these two guidelines for life, we prepare the heart and mind to hear God when He is trying to tell us something. The Bible may not highlight a direct route to your question, as it doesn’t address every specific situation in life. However, the overarching themes of God’s faithfulness, mercy, and grace help guide us in making wise choices for every situation.
Ways God Tries to Tell You Something
If God can use a donkey to get Balaam’s attention (Numbers 22:21-35), we know He can speak to us however He pleases, but based on scripture and experience, I’ve found that usually speaks in four main ways:
1. Bible. God speaks to us through His Word. Hebrews 4:12 says it is alive and active. It quickens the deepest part of our soul and is sharper than any double-edged sword. As we read, study, and meditate on scripture, we become better equipped to “hear” God’s voice when He is trying to tell us something.
Years ago, Charles Stanley spoke on the benefit of a daily reading plan, saying how God often spoke to him about that day’s circumstances through the day’s scripture reading. The daily habit boosted his confidence in knowing God was aware of what he would face that day and provided what he needed to hear from Him.
For us, it could be a verse that feels magnetic. It continues to turn over in our minds throughout the day. Maybe we hear that exact keyword in the lyrics of a song as we drive to work. Or perhaps, when reading specific topics, such as forgiveness and bitterness, conviction quickens in our spirit as God brings a particular person to mind.
2. Prayer. God listens to the godly who does His will (John 9:31), so we seek Him in prayer, and when searching for wisdom, James 1:5 tells us God gives it to us generously.
3. The Holy Spirit. In 1 Kings 19:12, Elijah waits to hear from God at the side of a mountain. It doesn’t come in a great and powerful wind, earthquake, or fire, but a gentle whisper.
Today, the Holy Spirit similarly guides us. Jesus tells us in John 14:26 that the Counselor, the Holy Spirit, came to teach and guide believers. When God is trying to tell us something, the Holy Spirit’s voice can emerge in various ways, including our conscience, as He did for Paul in Romans 9:1, or through scripture, a quickening in our spirit or circumstances.
4. Preachers, Teachers, and Ordinary People. In the Old Testament, God spoke mainly through the prophets. 2 Samuel 12 gives the account of God using the prophet Nathan to convict David’s heart over his sin with Bathsheba. Today, pastors and teachers seek to hear and follow God’s desire for sermons and lessons, aware of their need for His guidance and the power of the Holy Spirit.
There are also instances in the Bible where God used ordinary people, like Moses’ father-in-law, who noticed Moses’ heavy burdens. In Acts 9:15-16, God sent Ananias of Damascus to Saul, saying, “Go! This man is my chosen instrument to carry my name before the Gentiles and their kings and before the people of Israel.”
Can Others Help You See God Is Trying to Tell You Something?
God wired us for community, gifting us the ability to “sharpen” one another through prayer, authentic relationships, and speaking the truth. He uses others, even strangers, to help us see when He is trying to tell us something.
One day, while waiting for my tea in a local restaurant, a woman came inside and picked up her to-go order. She returned in a matter of minutes and walked straight to my table with a smile. “God wouldn’t let me start my car because I need to pray for you.” She prayed against fear and for healing, unaware of the timidity churning inside over a major surgery scheduled for the following day. But God did. Her willingness to act on what God told her blessed us both. I knew God was trying to tell me that He was aware of my concerns and had it all under control.
Signs God Is Trying to Tell You Something
Certain times and situations may heighten our awareness that God may be trying to alert us to. Some may include:
1. You notice a familiar theme at every turn. You see it on TV, hear it on the radio, catch it in a friend’s conversation, or read it in the Bible.
2. Those who know you best confirm He is trying to tell you something.
3. God sometimes tries to get our attention through trials.
4. A particular cause or ministry sparks your soul.
5. You may feel unsettled, stuck, or disconnected. There may also be an overall lack of peace.
Five Confirmations God Is Trying to Tell You Something
No formula guarantees we will always know when God is trying to tell us something, but just as the Bible is the map for all of life, there are also foundational guardrails, or confirmations, to help us stay on track.
1. Whether it’s a thought, a quickening of our spirit, or someone speaking to us, God will never tell us anything that contradicts His Word. Our first action step is to ensure it aligns with scripture.
2. If God is trying to bring a particular sin or action to our attention, we can know it is not Him if it involves condemnation. Romans 8:1 says there is no condemnation for those in Christ Jesus. Yes, there is a conviction of sins, but the tone between the two is vastly different.
3. Wise counsel from brothers or sisters in Christ will help to confirm what God is trying to tell us.
4. God wants us to know what He is trying to tell us. He doesn’t play hide-and-seek with His children.
5. “Closed doors” are as much an indication of God speaking as open ones. Don’t look for Him to “open” a window. Instead, keep your eye on the door and trust God’s timing.
A Prayer for When God Is Trying to Tell You Something
Heavenly Father, thank You for being a Father who longs to be known by His children. You reveal Your will and purposes in ways we can understand and obey, so please help me to remain alert to the things You want to tell me and to be sensitive to Your Spirit. I want to live in a way that pleases You and brings You much glory. Amen.
Further Reading:
Is it Biblical 'Where God Guides, He Provides'?
4 Helpful Prayers for Decision-Making and Guidance
How Can I Recognize the Guidance of the Holy Spirit?
10 Prayers for Guidance from God's Wisdom and Help
Photo Credit: Getty Images/alphaspirit
