GIVE A LITTLE WHISTLE: ARE YOU CONSCIOUS YET?

Romans 2:15 Which shew the work of the law written in their hearts, their conscience also bearing witness, and their thoughts the mean while accusing or else excusing one another;) KJV
Romans 9:1 I say the truth in Christ, I lie not, my conscience also bearing me witness in the Holy Ghost,KJV
John 8:9 And they which heard it, being convicted by their own conscience, went out one by one, beginning at the eldest, even unto the last: and Jesus was left alone, and the woman standing in the midst. KJV

Several decades ago, a little Disney cartoon character, named Jiminy Cricket, sang a cute little tune that ended with the phrase "always let your conscience be your guide." There is something to be said about this thought because it suggests a partial truth to those who would understand it.  For the Christian, this idea is very possible. But the unsaved individual can't always trust his or her conscience because it is subject to the powers of darkness and satan's nature, and therefore, unreliable.

The subject of the human conscience is seldom acknowledged in spiritual, sociological or psychological circles. Even though it's not frequently mentioned in Scripture, it is in truth, the very center of godly and ungodly conviction, appetite, determination, spiritual perception, understanding, memory and choice. In fact, generally speaking, to our lamentable fault, the conscience is seldom discussed or defined by the typical believer and Christian leader. Consequently, we have unwittingly limited the wide variety of spiritual expressions  that would  greatly benefit us all. This  information deficit has, from what I've observed, contributed to a huge assortment of problems in spiritual living as well as social issues. Furthermore, let me interject this thought: It would prove extremely advisable for anyone involved in government, politics and the process of elections to understand the condition of the corporate conscience of the people of a region in order to affect, and gain support of that area. Because you see, conscience, more than culture, plays a huge role on which way a people will go with anything. 

After many years of reading, and comparing the limited number of writings and philosophies about conscience, and not being completely convinced by their differences of ideas, I spent hours pouring exclusively over any Bible verse that might reveal more than what I'd disappointingly read from other authors. It was a similar journey when I began to investigate the subject of truth. No one agreed! What's more, I found much of what had been written before about truth, conscience, human spirit, soul, and Holy Spirit,  was inconsistent with the practical living out of these things. And additionally, I found their ideologies more based in humanistic or philosophical roots, rather than biblical. So, if you will allow me the opportunity here, I want to throw my hat into the ring, so to say, to speak into this vast and much needed subject. Therefore, if I do quote from another author, I will note it. Consequently, most of what I'm writing about is from my own independent thoughts on the matter, based on as thorough a study of the Scriptures related to it as I can at this time. Hopefully, I'll continue to grow as God reveals more to me.  

In context with our subject of learning how to grow in the truths of God's Kingdom, the Holy Spirit specifically targets the conscience. We looked at that slightly when investigating the concept of the inward witness. Furthermore, the Spirit does so, probably to your surprise, according to how well the individual appreciates and practices the fear of the Lord. The Fear of the Lord seems to be the meter that keeps the conscience in balance. At this point let me mention that there are several different categories of the fear of the Lord identified in Scripture. The most important to the believer is an understanding and practice of the fear of God through the application of New Birth realities. Christians who don't operate in a New birth approach to the fear of God tend to run from Him, as Adam and his wife did after the fall, for they'd embraced a Fallen Fear of the Lord. A New Birth approach to the fear of God causes the believer to change his or her behaviors that could break down the fluency of the communication in the relationship with God.  This is because when a right New Birth understanding of the fear of God  motivates the believer, it’s doctrinal influence generates an inner strength in the conscience, connected with the individual's will, that then enables that person to demonstrate respect and honor for who God is, who He has made the person to be, and how he or she should and can behave. Positive, negative and apathetic convictions are formulated in the conscience, depending on how seriously the fear of the Lord referees one’s field of life. Therefore, if one's conscience is weak, or unsettled, the individual will have difficulty discerning the inward witness correctly.

If you'll consider the chart below, you will see that under the heading of conscience, as located under the column of the human spirit, conscience is comprised of a variety of invisible but powerful components.

So without any further delay, let's dive into the subject of the conscience!!

Your belief systems take residence in your conscience. In fact, the greater the revelation of the fear of the Lord, the stronger the conviction, of the inward witness and the greater the awareness to God’s presence, influencing every event, word and feeling in life. Inevitably, these things consequentially determine how you live. In some narrow respects, the conscience could be considered the ears and voice of the human spirit, although that view barely encompasses its human role.

Historically, various theological circles, mostly out of Europe and Scandanavia, have discussed and analyzed the human conscience over the course of many generations. The conscience has been compared to a courtroom where constantly sits the judge, jury, executioner, defense and witness. Court, therefore, is always in session in the human life, if one looks at the conscience this way. According to the Hebrew and Greek words translated as the word "conscience", a great majority of Bible commentators conceptually define the conscience as “knowledge along with another.” It is disputed by some as, whom, or what, that “an-other” is, but the great majority, who dare to comment, all conclude that the “other” is God. Therefore, conscience is that part of any human being that, generally speaking, most identifies and perceives the existence and presence of God, His knowledge, spiritual realities and much more. It then bears, or does not bear, witness, or jointly testifies in agreement, or does not testify with, who and what God has established to be godly by His fear. Furthermore, the resulting thoughts either excuse, or accuse, the decision that will be made, even about the slightest thing.

TYPES OF CONSCIENCE

Practically speaking, and from what I've concluded, there are several types of conscience, based on biblical content and practical observation. I've also considered how conscience is developed at certain times of life in the individual. Many years ago I showed my ideas concerning this to the "at that time" Dr. Eldon DeWitt, a key leader in a Florida organization of Christian psychologists, and he was very interested in it. He felt it answered some key questions about the inner man and we concurred that this information would be extremely helpful to believers in many areas of the faith. He has since passed on to glory. But he encouraged me to continue this study.

Those types of conscience are:
INBORN INTUITIONAL MORAL CONSCIENCE
ACQUIRED INBORN CONSCIENCE
ACQUIRED AND DEVELOPED CONSCIENCE

Ideally, God has designed for every human being to possess the inborn intuitional conscience that enables us to develop the proper boundaries for right and wrong, and much more. In many instances, especially if there is a calling to ministry, it seems that unusual spiritual conflict may occur prior to some infants being born. There is no way to really explain it, but some individuals, conceived in the most distressing circumstances and surrounding environments, are born, grow up and become healthy individuals, in spite of all the demonic intent to warp them and twist their conscience. For some reason, God protects that particular individual’s conscience. The Bible very clearly states that He is not a respecter of persons, and yet, there seems to be a special protective grace resting on called individuals who are born into potentially destructive situations. This is highly unusual, but there is no other explanation for why some children exposed to horrific conditions are sensible even when their parents demonstrate depravity.

The INBORN INTUITIONAL MORAL CONSCIENCE is that God-given factor that should rightfully belong to every human being beginning in the fetus. It is essentially the unadulterated and pure human spirit awaiting to be developed. On rare, please note, rare occasions, conscious choices are made in the womb that would indicate the conscience and human spirit is functioning, aware and decisive. 

In speaking of this, I don't want you to get distracted from the present topic of hearing truth by the Spirit, because I know that in discussing this, some readers would try to say I am referring to  a doctrine known as original sin. That is another subject entirely, and one that would take a great deal of examination to explain. However, at this point it does not relate to our subject of how the Holy Spirit communicates truth to the conscience. Nonetheless, I believe we should to consider a few Biblical instances that reveal the fetus’s spirit is alive and aware of God’s presence. It may, even possibly, make decisions while in the womb. Now don't get bent out of shape when I say this.

The first instance that comes to mind describes the unborn John the Baptist reacting in the womb upon hearing Mary’s voice as she went to visit Elizabeth his aged mother. Elizabeth reported that the fetus leaped in her womb, and she became aware of the presence of God abiding in Mary the soon to be mother of the Messiah. The unborn child seemingly reacted because he seemed to be aware of the presence of God. This is evidence that conscience functions before actual birth, as it is knowledge along with another, or a perception of God!

Isa 48:8 Yea, thou heardest not; yea, thou knewest not; yea, from that time that thine ear was not opened: for I knew that thou wouldest deal very treacherously, and wast called a transgressor from the womb. (KJV)

Another example, though a bit difficult to explain, is found in Isaiah 48:8. In this passage, God states, through the prophet Isaiah, that Jacob was considered to be a rebel from the womb. Is this suggesting that some sort of rebellious choice was made prior to or shortly after birth? Its difficult to say for sure, but the wording seems to imply it.       

        

An ACQUIRED INBORN CONSCIENCE is a perverted form of conscience that occurs a result of physical and genetic disorders, due to chemical misuse, while the fetus is in the womb, or by possibly, although considered controversial, generational curses due to certain types of sin in the parental lines. Certain disorders, such as “Crack” Babies and Fetal Alcohol Syndrome, can result in a condition in which the individual afflicted by it has virtually no ability to feel conviction or distinguish right or wrong.  One article in the February 1991 issue of Reader’s Digest, entitled; Kids Who Can’t Say No, states- “Crack children are scary”, adds Thelma Farley, director of Beacon Day School in Oakland, Calif., and a child development expert. “So many drug-exposed children seem to lack moral reasoning- they just don’t get it when they’ve done something wrong.” Does this mean that the physical abuses of drugs, alcoholism etc, may damage the ability of the child's fragile conscience? It's something to think about because there is a strange amount of evidence pointing to that conclusion.

Finally, let’s consider the ACQUIRED AND DEVELOPED CONSCIENCE. This type of conscience is a direct result of, godly and ungodly, internal and external, influences or stimuli. Sometimes, a pre-birth trauma can affectively produce this type of conscience.  However, it is most likely acquired in the early years of a child's life through godly or ungodly parental influence and extended family influences. Fathers, mothers, grandparents, aunts, uncles, older brothers and  sisters, and cousins all exert varying degrees of impact in the development of this acquired condition. This is literally the conscience while in construction. Various sorts of biblical or non-biblical religious training also influence the early years of the childhood development. Legalistic extremes are especially damaging in these stages of growth.  External stimuli, such as television, videos, music, culture, education and books, all contribute positively or negatively to the development of conscience. Television’s influence is especially significant, since, statistically, the average American child will have watched thousands of acts of televised violence, including thousands of depictions of murder, by the time he or she is 13 years old. Culture also plays a key role in conscience development. If the culture is anti-God, or even anti-conscience, such as Tibetan Buddhism, that encourages the denial of conscience at an early age, than that culture can disable conscience in the name of social acceptance and create an entrance for the acceptance of sinful behaviors. One cannot ignore this type of conscience, because essentially, we build it.

A healthy conscience is essential if the individual is to hear the Spirit of God clearly. An unhealthy conscience is unaware of and cannot, dare I say, does not feel the slightest working, movement or manifestation of God. Therefore, it blindly ignores His daily involvement in the human life and can’t respect Him, or consequentially, adjust behavior, because there is no concern for what might damage the intimate relationship or apprehension of harmful loss. An increasing number of occult, and so-called supernatural influences. paraded in the various modes of movies, music, television and literature have become progressively more tolerated and accepted in Christian circles. They're looked upon as moral teaching tools, and positive stimuli, when in fact, they contradict, counterfeit and replace the genuine spirituality that God desires and can only be exposed if there is a proper understanding of the fear of God. Remember, the conscience needs a healthy fear of God to discern what is truth. Christians can now readily and defensively quote both non-Christian and Christian authors and movies who propagate religiously camouflaged occult based themes that intentionally fraud actual spirituality. They will sometimes respond to those stimuli with approving shouts and clapping, even more than they would in response to God’s actual word and character. From what I've observed and after numerous conversations pertaining to this, I've come to the conclusion that only the random believe discerns the demonic intent of the crippling deception aimed at destroying the conscious reality of the fear of God and the conscience of the believer.  A great number of things could be said concerning the frightening absence, and the need for the awesome tangible manifestation of God’s presence and glory, in the individual Christian life and all too frequently spiritually vacuous Christian meetings. I know this sounds accusative, but maybe it's time we wake up and realizes there is a problem. Furthermore,  corporate conscience has become numbed over the process of time.  I find that we want to use entertaining music and superficial, psychologically feel-good messages, where it seems the fear of the Lord has disappeared, in favor of temporal, worldly styled comfortable gatherings that fail to confront the miserable condition of conscience that nears searing, as warned of by Paul in 1 Timothy 4:1-3. It is more than obvious; we don’t constantly fear God, His presence or principles. If we did, things would be far different and the testimony of the Church would bear witness to His reality and character. Where is the conviction we so need? Furthermore, how can was say we're hearing from the Spirit of truth if we've lost the guage of testing it?

The son of the widowed woman of Zarephath, in the drama of 1 Kings 17:17-18, died. Grieved, she confronted Elijah in a way that indicates her conscience actively remembered her past sins.  She felt that the death of her son was due to her failures and Elijah’s prophetic presence reminded her of the issues. Whether her son’s death was a result of her sins or not, is not the issue. In her situation, and in ours, the conscience remembers the good, bad, the ugly and literally every word we speak, hear and learn, even if that remembrance is twisted by the fall and contrary to the truth of God’s character.

A similar instance is recorded in John 8, when the legalistic, religious leaders desired to condemn a woman caught in the sin of adultery. Jesus response is unique. Instead of condemning the woman to death, as the religious accusers were hoping he would do, he stooped down and began to write upon the ground. Her accusers would have grown increasingly disturbed because of this action, as they were all aware of the writing of Jeremiah 17:13 that states that those who depart from the Lord, forsaking Him, are like names written on the ground, doomed to disappear. Consequently, Jesus challenged them, and said that he that was without sin among them should cast the first stone. One by one, being convicted by their conscience, remembering their own spiritual adulteries, they left till none was left to accuse. The conscience knows and remembers!

1 Kings 17:17 And it came to pass after these things, that the son of the woman, the mistress of the house, fell sick; and his sickness was so sore, that there was no breath left in him.18 And she said unto Elijah, What have I to do with thee, O thou man of God? art thou come unto me to call my sin to remembrance, and to slay my son? (KJV)

John 8:1 Jesus went unto the mount of Olives. 2 And early in the morning he came again into the temple, and all the people came unto him; and he sat down, and taught them. 3 And the scribes and Pharisees brought unto him a woman taken in adultery; and when they had set her in the midst, 4 They say unto him, Master, this woman was taken in adultery, in the very act. 5 Now Moses in the law commanded us, that such should be stoned: but what sayest thou? 6 This they said, tempting him, that they might have to accuse him. But Jesus stooped down, and with his finger wrote on the ground, as though he heard them not. 7 So when they continued asking him, he lifted up himself, and said unto them, He that is without sin among you, let him first cast a stone at her. 8 And again he stooped down, and wrote on the ground. 9 And they which heard it, being convicted by their own conscience, went out one by one, beginning at the eldest, even unto the last: and Jesus was left alone, and the woman standing in the midst. 10 When Jesus had lifted up himself, and saw none but the woman, he said unto her, Woman, where are those thine accusers? hath no man condemned thee? 11 She said, No man, Lord. And Jesus said unto her, Neither do I condemn thee: go, and sin no more.  (KJV)

Jer 17:13 O Lord, the Hope of Israel, all who forsake You shall be put to shame. They who depart from You and me [Your prophet] shall [disappear like] writing upon the ground, because they have forsaken the Lord, the Fountain of living waters. (AMP)

THE CONSCIENCE HOLDS THE KEYS TO MEMORY AND LEARNING. You could say it's your spiritual brain.

 Proverbs 1:7 The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge: but fools despise wisdom and instruction. (KJV)

Proverbs 2:5 Then shalt thou understand the fear of the LORD, and find the knowledge of God. (KJV)

Proverbs 9:10 The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom: and the knowledge of the holy is understanding. (KJV)

Isaiah 11:2 And the spirit of the LORD shall rest upon him, the spirit of wisdom and understanding, the spirit of counsel and might, the spirit of knowledge and of the fear of the LORD; (KJV)

The conscience holds the keys to memory and learning. For some reason, it remembers all things experienced and learned, including the good, evil and insignificant. It’s regrettable that this foundational aspect of humanity has been overlooked, as the godly access and training of it could result in incredible and unrealized educational opportunity. I’m aware that this is a challenging concept, but I believe and have found to be true, with the students of the Institutes for Biblical Truth programs and classes, that learning can and does escalate exponentially, if the functions of the conscience are targeted. Alas, we’ve become trapped in a fundamentally humanistic educational worldview that ignores the human spirit, while the potential in the conscience awaits admission and development. This is the very reason that when one develops conscience in a godly sense, the fear of the Lord results in the beginning of all aspects of knowledge, skill and wisdom. This is of no small affect, as the fear of the Lord, in a healthy conscience empowers potential in understanding wisdom in administration, skill for all forms of conflict and shrewdness in virtually every manner of human need. But the mere fact is that conscience is undeveloped and worse, often ignored. Perhaps the  proper, working understanding of the fear of the Lord, is also one of the reasons that some of the greatest minds and intellectuals throughout history were in the majority, Jewish. It just can’t be a coincidence. Some of the greatest minds and scientific inventors of human history were Jews.  For example, Albert Einstein was a Jew, even though it is uncertain as to what his actual belief system was since numerous authors seem to contradict each other about this. Many Jews didn’t, and do not, acknowledge the God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob, but that does not void God’s promise to the nations through Abraham (Gen.12:1-3;18:17;22:18). So if the Spirit is to guide believers into all truth, and desires to speak through the inward witness, or knowing in the conscience: have we been missing something that could potentially open up the doors for academic prowess? I believe so. But, it will not develop without an increased appreciation for the fear of God.

I hope this has made you think! I want you to realize that the invisible part of you, in your spirit, has a big role to play in the joint interaction that the Holy Spirit wants to do through the inward witnes in your conscience. There is so much that could be talked about concerning this. What's more the condition of your conscience affects how you discern, intepret and apply what the Spirit speaks. We'll take a look at the different conditions of conscience  from the biblical overview in the next article so you can begin to align yourself with the ways of God's Spirit through the fear of the Lord. We need to unplug those inner ears to hear Him clearly.

DON'T FORGET TO REGISTER

I just wanted to remind anyone who is thinking of attending the CALLED INTO HIS PRESENCE: Praise and Worship Seminar from April 16th-20th, in Colorado Springs, CO, that you'll need to register by April 2nd. Contact us at info@tamarawinslow.com for the registration forms. Hope you can come!

YOUR INVISIBLE EARS: THE INWARD WITNESS OF THE SPIRIT

It’s one of those times when you know, that you know, that you know, something you shouldn’t normally know, but you can’t deny it. You call it a gut feeling. You can’t explain it. You just know that you know. Then when the time comes for you to act or speak, you do what you know to be true, even though it makes no sense, and proves to be the right thing to do or say. It’s one of those times, whether you're aware of it or not, that the Spirit of God is speaking to you: truth, necessary information, a feeling that no human being can deny, but so real you can’t shake it. This is one of the ways God’s Spirit communicates the truths of God’s Kingdom!

In previous articles, as we’ve looked at the subject of the truth pertaining to the Kingdom of God, we’ve defined truth, identified the filters that obscure it, discovered the multiple sources of the truth’s God desires to give us and then most recently focused on the operation of how marvelously the Holy Spirit communicates truth. I think you can see by now that we’ve barely scratched the surface of a wonderful, practical and complicated privilege afforded the believer. Furthermore, in our last few articles, we’ve learned that the truths of the Kingdom are not exclusively obtained from the Bible, but confirmed through the Holy Spirit’s varied manners of communications. Therefore, people without Bibles are not without a way to get the truths God needs to get across to them. In saying that, this means that the Holy Spirit will never contradict what the Scriptures say, who God is in character and much more.

In the last article we saw that the Spirit speaks in a variety of ways that many believers in the Church are clueless of, and  what's worse, untrained in. The next few articles will focus on various ways God presently communicates by the Spirit to bring truth to His people so they can practically walk with Him. This article will help you learnhow the Spirit speaks through the inward witness, conscience and perceptions.

The makeup of the inner, invisible human nature is an amazing and intricately interconnected spiritual instrument. Like a machine, when one part isn't functioning as it should, it affects every other element. Many years ago, fascinated by the numerous Hebrew and Greek words, and their definitions, I set out on a prospecting journey to identify and describe the hidden inward man. I tore apart each word, and hundreds of verses, in order to identify the makeup of what has been generally identified as spirit and soul. By cross referencing the hundreds of verses according to how each part was said to function, I began to discover what I've come to identify as the structure of the inner man. I say began to discover, because there is always more to learn. Nonetheless, I realized that in order to better cooperate with the Spirit of God, and recognize His communication, I'd need to know what was happening in my heart. As a result of those many years of research, I would like to offer the following chart as a general synopsis of the human makeup with a reminder there is always more to discover. 

The makeup of the inner man is probably one of the most interesting, complicated and wonderous aspects of the human being. No other aspect of created life on earth possesses these things. Furthermore, Paul wrote of the hidden man of the heart on numerous occasions, insinuating that God interacts with us through these components. At times the terms for spirit, heart, soul, mind, will, feelings, conscience and inner man are interchangeable. But a closer look at the entirety of the verses, and comparison of the Hebrew and Greek words with their various definitions, reveals a much more complex structure then the generalized viewpoint has come to accept.

Romans 8:16 The Spirit itself beareth witness with our spirit, that we are the children of God: KJV

Eph 4:22 That ye put off concerning the former conversation the old man, which is corrupt according to the deceitful lusts 23 And be renewed in the spirit of your mind; And that ye put on the new man, which after God is created in righteousness and true holiness. KJV
Rom 8:7- Because the carnal mind is enmity against God: for it is not subject to the law of God, neither indeed can be. 8 So then they that are in the flesh cannot please God. KJV

One verse, that exemplifies this over-generalization problem, is found in Romans 8 where Paul writes that the Holy Spirit bears witness with our spirit with the corroborating witness or agreed  knowledge that we are God's children. This is true without a doubt. But then, when examining the concept of the inward witness, one needs to take the study a bit further. It appears according to additional evidence from Paul's writings that the inward witness originates in the part of the human spirit known as the conscience. I say part of the human spirit, because an in-depth study of the aspect of the human spirit will reveal that the spirit has a type of mind, as different from the mind of the soul, and the mind of the flesh. The spirit is also directly related to numerous references related to the heart, but then there is significant evidence that the heart can also pertain to the soul ,or sometimes, seems to stand on it's own. Obviously, it's hard to draw distinctive lines between these since they're invisible components of the entire inner man. For that reason, in my next article I will to draw your attention to the subject of conscience, and it's role in hearing the communication of the Holy Spirit. But first, lets look at the idea of the inward witness and how the Spirit jointly works with this aspect of expression in the human being.

The inward witness can be best defined as a joint testimony, possessing a sense of agreement, or knowing whether something is true or not true. It is almost like a feeling, and it might be called a perception, or that still small voice, but, it is more-so that sense of unexplainable knowing that something is right, or conversely wrong, and that you find yourself agreeing with, but not always knowing why. From what I've observed, and what I believe occurs more frequently than any other means of expression used by God's Spirit, the Spirit of God communicates truth to the human being through the inward witness. In my walk with the Lord, depending on this witness has become as much a part of my life as breathing. Furthermore, it's a privilege available to all saints who desire to walk hand in hand with God. It is furthermore significant that the concept of bearing witness, as translated from the Greek word, marvelously reveals that its indicative of a joint venture, a cooperative communication with God.

Many a tragedy could be averted if the people of God would heed the witness in their inner being that makes them sense to do or not to do something. Let me give you an example.

About 20 years ago my husband and I drove to the Grand Canyon region for a vacation. While there we decided to stop and visit one of the canyon rim viewing areas frequented by tourists. We parked our car and were about to get out when I had the overpowering sense of "Don't Move". I grabbed my husbands arm and said, "We need to wait". No sooner had I gotten the words out of my mouth, that then a bolt of lightning struck the trunk of the pine tree right in front of our vehicle. You could smell the smoldering wood and the crack of the noise of the strike was sharp and hair raising. Had we gotten out of the car and ignored this witness, we probably would have been struck and hurt, or worse killed. That type of event puts the fear of God in you. Then, no more than an hour later, we were out on the view platform, railed in by iron fencing, when the Park officials announced all the people needed to leave the area. We headed to the awaiting bus that would take us back to the car, and were standing on the concrete sidewalk, when once again I had the urgent witness, "Get on the bus NOW!"  I hurried on the bus with Mike.  We had just gotten into caravan, when another bolt of lightning hit the iron railing striking several tourists who had ignored the warnings and were regrettably holding onto the railing when the strike came. Yow! I felt so sorry for the people who were hurt. Should I have said anything? I still don't know, because I didn't even have time to think about anything else until afterward. But that event made me seriously respect the inward witness of the Spirit.

We need to be instructed and helped in understanding of how God communicates through His Spirit to us for our help, comfort, and peace. Thankfully, this inward witness is not exclusive to people called to specific ministries. Here's another true story.

 A number of years ago, just into the first few days of the month long Institute course I was directing, one of my staff got word from home that her dearest uncle had suddenly become ill, with the possibility that he would die. Now obviously, I had to check my own motives, because I needed her help in the staffing of the school. But when I prayed about it, based on the inward witness, I did not sense impending death or major issues. However, I could not tell her what to do because she needed to hear from God for herself so she could know what she should do. So one day, while the entire group was out on a recreational trip, she came to me and asked if I could tell her what to do. I reassured her that I would support any decision she made. However, I suggested that before making a decision, she should simply get quiet before the Lord, listen to that inward witness in her heart, and then, ask God whether her uncle was in serious trouble or not. So, there on the sidewalk, in the center of Breckenridge, she stood there and prayed and waited. All of a sudden, she looked up at me and said, "He's going to be ok! I don't need to go home." She, therefore, stayed the entirety of the course because the witness she had in her heart from the Lord was exactly how things occurred. Now I know this is a tough issue, and some people would have said I was being insensitive to her need and released her to go home. But the truth is, I believe the enemy wanted to use the worry and concern about her uncle to distract her, and possibly pull her away from the things God had for her during that school. Thankfully,  because she listened to the inward witness of the Spirit, who showed her things to come, she learned a valuable lesson. Many years later she told me that one of the most powerful things she learned from me was that she didn't have to crumble when she faced difficult circumstances, and, if she paid attention to the inward witness of the Spirit, she could have peace and direction. What a marvelous testimony. Sadly, on more occasions than I like to remember, when I have been obedient to that inward witness, other people didn't  always understand it, even though what I had witness of proved out in the end. In those times I've had to stand alone, aware of their criticisms and judgments. Thankfully, God has vindicated me repeatedly, but it has had a price, and made me very cautious to share what the Spirit is communicating to me. 

You need to understand that carnally minded believers respond almost exclusively to the crisis, acquiescing to people's feelings, or reacting to natural conditions of the moment.  They do not understand the inward witness, and will even mock it. They aren't intentionally being hurtful, but they have not learned about this constant state of communication with the Holy Spirit. Furthermore, it takes time to develop accuracy in this, so you may miss it, and those who mock you will remind you of that, because they feel it's their duty to do so. Consequently, as I encourage you to pay attention to that witness, and develop your discernment according to His character, His word, etc, I need to warn you, it may cost you being misunderstood by the people closest to you. Nonetheless, the rewards are fantastic, because you're in a joint relationship with your God! So be watching for my next article when I'll show you what aspect of your spirit the Holy Spirit communicates to: your conscience and points on how to grow in your relationship with the Lord for accuracy.

Mid-week extra! THE NEED FOR BARNABAS!

Acts 9:26 And when Saul was come to Jerusalem, he assayed to join himself to the disciples: but they were all afraid of him, and believed not that he was a disciple. 27 But Barnabas took him, and brought him to the apostles, and declared unto them how he had seen the Lord in the way, and that he had spoken to him, and how he had preached boldly at Damascus in the name of Jesus. 28 And he was with ...them coming in and going out at Jerusalem. KJV

At some point in life, you may need a genuine Barnabas. Barnabas emerged on the scene of the New Testament church at a time when directive voices, like the ministry of Paul was needed. Paul was facing tremendous opposition. The believers in Jerusalem, and it's leaders were suspicious of him, and for seemingly good reason. Before Paul's conversion to Christ, he'd persecuted and supervised the killing of early converts, notably Stephen. Then after having experienced the life-altering encounter with Christ on the road to Damascus, Paul was radically transformed. Nonetheless, suspicion had festered and the leaders of the Church were resistant. Then, as Paul diligently pursued fellowship with the rest of the disciples, no one wanted to welcome him, fearful of what he was going to do. What we don't realize, is that because the people chose to believe past reports, and failed to seek God concerning Paul's change of heart, Paul was on the verge of isolation, without fellowship. Thankfully, Barnabas, a highly respected man, and one who recognized Paul's dilemma, changed the situation. Robertson's Word Pictures in the New Testament states "It is to the credit of Barnabas that he had the insight and the courage to stand by Saul at the crucial moment in his life when the evidence seemed to be against him."

Barnabas' name has several potential angles of interpretation. He was identified as the "son of consolation or comfort". His name is also directly linked with two Hebrew words that define him as the "son of Nabbas" or the "son of prophecy". Had Barnabas not prophetically intervened with the comfort and counsel necessary to open the way for Paul's inclusion in the fellowship of the saints, we might not have had the full effect of Paul's apostolic/ teaching and evangelistic ministry, along with almost two-thirds of the New Testament writings. That's significant and a bit shocking. But you see, without a wisely managed ministry like Barnabas, it is highly probably that the Church misses out on the ministries of people who've been disallowed from fellowship because of suspicions, slanders, evil reports and false accusations.

We need the ministry of people like Barnabas. Regrettably, people who try to assume that role often fail miserably, in that they become inappropriately forceful, bradgadocious and enamoured with the one they believe should be endorsed and embraced. Without knowing it, their unwise promotion creates an atmosphere whereby observers or ambitious individuals gradually develop an attitude of jealousy that stirs further suspicion, in order to cancel out the work that the well-meaning promoter has done. Barnabas simply opened the door, sharing only enough encouragement and support in the way that Paul was more readily received and allowed to preach without unwarrented resistance. Barnabas was also able to comfort Paul, who was most probably very frustrated, not having a platform to preach and without fellowship to be refreshed.

Thank God for genuine Barnabases. They are men and women of wisdom, humble and supportive. Without them, the isolated messengers of God, may not emerge to fulfill their destinies! We need to be praying for their release into the Church.

WEEKEND POST: ARE YOU A PRESUMPTUOUS BARBARIAN?

Acts 28:1 And when they were escaped, then they knew that the island was called Melita.2 And the barbarous people shewed us no little kindness: for they kindled a fire, and received us every one, because of the present rain, and because of the cold.3 And when Paul had gathered a bundle of sticks, and laid them on the fire, there came a viper out of the heat, and fastened on his hand.4 And when the barbarians saw the venomous beast hang on his hand, they said among themselves, No doubt this man is a murderer, whom, though he hath escaped the sea, yet vengeance suffereth not to live.5 And he shook off the beast into the fire, and felt no harm.6 Howbeit they looked when he should have swollen, or fallen down dead suddenly: but after they had looked a great while, and saw no harm come to him, they changed their minds, and said that he was a god.KJV

Having survived a near-death squall at sea, Paul, and the remaining people from the prison ship, made it to the shore of the island of Melita, aided by the superstitious barbarous inhabitants of the island. Everyone was wet and cold, huddling around the warmth that the kind natives of the island had provided for them. At some point in time, however, Paul went to gather more wood, and as soon as he laid the sticks on the flames, a poisonous viper, seemingly threatened by the heat, latched his lethal fangs onto Paul’s innocent hand. The story goes on to reveal that the unaffected Paul simply shook the creature off his hand and threw it back into the fire to the amazement of the natives.  

Vipers of this sort were known to be deadly, and the natives expected Paul to drop dead. Nonetheless, there is something in this event that deserves mention because it reveals a disturbing attitude all too commonly occurring in Christian circles.

In the account of Acts, the barbarian natives judged Paul as being guilty of some sort of wrong worthy of death.  In essence, they presumed that Paul must have done something serious enough to attract the serpent’s bite, and they superstitiously rationalized that since he didn’t perish in the sea’s waves, justice had found him. They reasoned: Why else would he have been bitten? He must have done something evil, so now he would die. Thankfully, they were wrong and their presumptuous judgments were incorrect. But this incident begs for our attention.

Obviously, superstitious assumptions of this sort are not unusual in tribal and primitive cultures. The people haven’t been educated, nor have they had the privilege of learning about the genuine character and ways of God. And yet, as shocking as it may be, from what I’ve observed and over heard, this very superstitious presumptuous judgmental attitude has seemingly been on the increase in the Church. I weep when I’ve heard other believers, even leaders, expressing similar reckoning about their needy brother or sister in Christ. This ungodly, arrogant, ignorant attitude manifests when they judge those who’ve suffered the hardship of devestating illness, faced repeating heartbreaking circumstances, lost homes, experienced the wide reaches of poverty, difficulty and more. They reason that the awful circumstances must be the result of  either the judgment of God or because they have some type of sin in their lives. Yet, like the barbarous natives of Melita, these judgments may be proven wrong.

Somewhere along the line, in the evolving of supposed Christian doctrine, which in fact is not, a mindset has been created that presupposes that all problems, difficulty, crisis and illness is automatically the result of sin. That my friend is dangerously superstitious and erroneous!  This type of rationale ignores some of the most basic tenants of Kingdom Truth, such as the New Birth, along with, disregarding the character and ways of God, and not practicing the fruit of the Spirit of kindness, love and mercy. Furthermore, the more that we condemn one another as sinners, and build a case according to how we interpret the laws of sowing and reaping, we set ourselves up for a future downfall. This matter, however, is not new to the human race. In fact, Jesus’ own followers succumbed to such beliefs.

John 9:1 And as Jesus passed by, he saw a man which was blind from his birth.2 And his disciples asked him, saying, Master, who did sin, this man, or his parents, that he was born blind?3 Jesus answered, Neither hath this man sinned, nor his parents: but that the works of God should be made manifest in him.4 I must work the works of him that sent me, while it is day: the night cometh, when no man can work.5 As long as I am in the world, I am the light of the world.6 When he had thus spoken, he spat on the ground, and made clay of the spittle, and he anointed the eyes of the blind man with the clay,7 And said unto him, Go, wash in the pool of Siloam, (which is by interpretation, Sent.) He went his way therefore, and washed, and came seeing. KJV

Jesus’ disciples had been with Him, listening to His teachings for some time already, when the event of John 9 occurred. Even so, they, like the natives of Melita, judged a blind man they saw along the way, religiously presuming that the man or his parents had sinned and that was why the man was blind. Jesus confronted this wrongful underlying principle, stating emphatically, that neither the man nor his parents had sinned. He went on to say that God’s works would manifest in this needy life, but the man was innocent of their charges. I can’t help but wonder how the disciples reacted. This had to be a huge challenge to their attitude. Furthermore, I’ve encountered countless believers who say the same things when they hear about a fellow Christian’s difficulties, illness, loss of finances, and crisis.

How can we support one another, and truly pray in love for one another, if we’ve already assumed that they’ve done something so very wrong that they’ve opened themselves up to such difficulties? Or maybe, they have a secret sin they need to repent of? Get a life! Let’s wake up to the diabolical strategy the enemy has created. He has calculatedly infiltrated the ranks of believers and successfully turned them against each other through condescending judgment. I realize that much of the painful human circumstance is the result of a lack of boundaries, as well as human error, sin and un-repented sin. But not always!  In fact, a great deal of what the average believer faces is specifically, and only generated, by satans’ determined attempt to thwart faith, strength and the accomplishment of vision. There is very real enemy that we need to be focusing on! But, from what I’ve observed, we’d rather become the judges of another individual's possible sin or problems, rather than stand against our mutual enemy. Hasn’t the time come for us to discern  the bigger picture of this dilemma. The natives of Melita were wrong. Paul was not being judged. The serpent attacked when the heat increased, just like Satan does when we’ve done something right for God. Let’s stop presuming we know! Let’s begin to see each other through the eyes of the New Birth, and the power of the Name of Jesus!!  

If sin is the reason for the entire human calamity then I beg you to ask: Was Paul in sin when he was captured and imprisoned? Was Peter in sin when he was crucified upside-down for his faith? Were all the martyrs in the faith sinners because they died for their belief in Christ? Come on! Think this through? In our attempts to go expose and cut out the root of troubling matters, many saints have left a posture of faith and loving discernment in favor of accusative generalized formulas and diagnosis concerning people's struggles. By doing so, they’ve begun to operate in suspicion and superstition. This is totally contrary to the way’s Jesus worked because it presupposes sin is the reason for each individual’s circumstance. Look at His model from John 9!!! It’s very different!

In truth, none of us know what’s going on in the hearts of those people we call the followers of Christ, and if you believe you are so discerning; your pride goes before your soon coming fall. What’s more, I don’t believe there is any single formula or cure for all human crises. Additionally, I do know that we live in a time when we need to stand together. Therefore, I choose not to be a presumptuous, superstitious barbarian! I hope you will also make the same choice when you’re faced with hurting people!! Just remember the islanders of Melita missed it. We don’t have to be guilty of the same thing!

CALLED INTO HIS PRESENCE-Praise and Worship Seminar

For those of you who love praise and worship, in all its varied forms, don't forget to consider the upcoming CALLED INTO HIS PRESENCE Praise and Worship Seminar I'll be conducting April 16th-20th in Colorado Springs, CO. For more information email us for the registration form. I believe this will be one of the most unique, significant seminars I've planned for a long time. This is not just for musicians!

AND THE SPIRIT SPEAKS!!!!

John 16:13 Howbeit when he, the Spirit of truth, is come, he will guide you into all truth: for he shall not speak of himself; but whatsoever he shall hear, that shall he speak: and he will shew you things to come.KJV

Acts 28:25 And when they agreed not among themselves, they departed, after that Paul had spoken one word, Well spake the Holy Ghost by Esaias the prophet unto our fathers,(KJV)

Acts 21:10-And as we tarried there many days, there came down from Judaea a certain prophet, named Agabus.11 And when he was come unto us, he took Paul's girdle, and bound his own hands and feet, and said, Thus saith the Holy Ghost, So shall the Jews at Jerusalem bind the man that owneth this girdle, and shall deliver him into the hands of the Gentiles.(KJV)

Rev 2:7 He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches; To him that overcometh will I give to eat of the tree of life, which is in the midst of the paradise of God.(KJV)

Rev 2:11 He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches; He that overcometh shall not be hurt of the second death.

Rev 2:17 He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches; To him that overcometh will I give to eat of the hidden manna, and will give him a white stone, and in the stone a new name written, which no man knoweth saving he that receiveth it.

Rev 2:29 He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches.

Rev 3:6 He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches.

Rev 3:13 He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches.

Rev 3:22 He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches.

Rev 14:13 And I heard a voice from heaven saying unto me, Write, Blessed are the dead which die in the Lord from henceforth: Yea, saith the Spirit, that they may rest from their labours; and their works do follow them.

 The pursuit of Kingdom Truth is available through numerous avenues of practical discovery. Regrettably, many Christians have become trapped by an age-old intellectual bias that limits the full possibilities of the Truths of God to what they read in the Bible and biblical resource materials. Now, don’t misunderstand me! I believe we need to diligently study the Word because Jesus clearly stated in John 17:17: Thy word is truth! Nonetheless, truth is poorly defined by many believers and seldom recognized for its vast Kingdom perspectives. My previous articles have therefore been deliberate in defining Kingdom Truth, along with categorizing the types of truth originating and belonging to God. We’ve also considered how that many believers read their Bible with individualized, and often corrupting, filters that result in twisted interpretations of what they read and conclusively producing wrong applications of biblical principles. It would be very helpful for you to review those previous articles so this posting makes sense to you. Let me also remind you that we've learned that the truths of the Kingdom of God are expressed and exhibited in many ways. I’ve re-posted that list below for your reflection.

Truth in the Kingdom of God

(ALMOST ALWAYS PRECEDED BY MERCY)

Truth of God in His Character- Ex. 34:6; Jer 10:10

Truth of God in His Word- John 17:17; Ps 119:160; 1 Thess. 2:13 

Truth of God in His Spirit- John 16:13; 1 John 4:6

Truth of God in His Law- Ps 119:142

Truth of God in our Lives and His Ways- Way of Truth- Ps. 119:130; 2 Pet. 2:2

Truth of God in His works- Dan 4:37

Spiritual truths in doctrines-Gal. 5:7; 3:1

Jesus is- John 14:6

The message of the gospel- Col 1:5

The anointing- 1 John 2:27

Character Truth- Way of righteousness

We've spent quite a bit of time looking at how Truth is prospected in the Bible. We’ll also look at that further in future posts. But our focus now is on how the Holy Spirit, also known as the Spirit of Truth, functions and brings truth to the believer. I have mentioned this before, but it bears saying again. Not every believer on the earth owns a Bible. Many wonderful Christians have never even seen the printed page of the Word. Does this mean that they cannot be partakers of truth? I dare say, sometimes I think they are very blessed in the intimate communicative exchange with God, that more “heady” knowledgeable believers lack even though they own and read a Bible. Dear God!!! Wake us up! Our faith and walk in Kingdom truth exceeds our intellectual know-it-all attitudes. We need to understand how the Spirit of Truth communicates to us!!!

In recent decades an odd sort of war has been waged against those believers who claim to hear from God. They’re scornfully labeled as lunatics and schizos by the people who don’t believe God talks! Now in saying this, I know I should qualify my statements because I'm very aware that mental illness does exist and should be “accurately” diagnosed. But if we claim to say we believe, and then out of the other side of our mouths deny that God is alive and well, and still speaking as He did in biblical times, we should simply pack up what we consider to be our faith and travel down the road to spiritual darkness. If there was ever a time when humankind needed to hear clearly from God, it’s now! In fact, I have felt for a number of years now, that as the desperation for truth builds, so will a welcome mat be laid out for those who can accurately speak the things that God what He wants to say to a needy world. Yes, there will no doubt be scoffers. But there is a growing openness to the things of a spiritual nature increasing in a variety of society's circles. I would not even be surprised if kings, presidents, and leaders of nations begin to be more open to hear from spiritually-minded individuals Nonetheless, until that happens, we need to understand how the Spirit of Truth operates. Therefore, to the best my ability, I will attempt to build a case for the Spirit of God’s speaking, and show you through His own written word, that He wants to speak truth to you on a daily basis.

It should be said: It’s not, IF He wants to speak? It’s: What does He want to say?” Think about it. What parents in their right minds would remain silent, never speaking to their children, never telling them how they feel about them, never teaching them how to live? That’s ridiculous. A caring loving parent speaks. So it is with God our Father.

At the beginning of this posting I selected and listed numerous biblical references citing that the Holy Spirit of truth speaks! These verses are just a few of the many! But let's take a closer look at some of the biblical examples that irrevocably prove that the Spirit of God is a speaker of truth!

Gen 3:6 And when the woman saw that the tree was good for food, and that it was pleasant to the eyes, and a tree to be desired to make one wise, she took of the fruit thereof, and did eat, and gave also unto her husband with her, and he did eat.7 And the eyes of them both were opened, and they knew that they were naked; and they sewed fig leaves together, and made themselves aprons.8 And they heard the voice of the LORD God walking in the garden in the cool of the day: and Adam and his wife hid themselves from the presence of the LORD God amongst the trees of the Qarden.9 And the LORD God called unto Adam, and said unto him, Where art thou?10 And he said, I heard thy voice in the garden, and I was afraid, because I was naked; and I hid myself.(KJV)

In the beginning, after the creation of humankind, God did not cease speaking, nor did He desert His created ones. They, in fact, were familiar with His voice and heard Him from the onset of their existence, through the time of the Fall and even after. Genesis 3:8 states that they heard the voice of the Lord God. The Hebrew word “shama’”, translated as heard, refers to an intelligent form of hearing with the implications of attention for the purpose of obedience. It implies that they recognized His voice, even after having eaten of the forbidden fruit! Their reactions to His voice after the Fall were, however, very different from before the Fall. Nonetheless, He spoke and still speaks.

It’s hard to say for sure, but from what I’ve concluded, after having discussed this matter with many Christians, in many places of the world, it seems like very few believers understand and realize the deafening affects of the Fall. What’s more, even fewer realize that the New Birth transformation reinstated the ability of the believing heart to hear Him clearly once again. Even so, this must be taught, exercised and developed.

Exod 20:18-And all the people saw the thunderings, and the lightnings, and the noise of the trumpet, and the mountain smoking: and when the people saw it, they removed, and stood afar off, 19 And they said unto Moses, Speak thou with us, and we will hear: but let not God speak with us, lest we die.20 And Moses said unto the people, Fear not: for God is come to prove you, and that his fear may be before your faces, that ye sin not.(KJV)

Dent 5:27 Go thou near, and hear all that the LORD our God shall say: and speak thou unto us all that the LORD our Gad shall speak unto thee; and we will hear it, and do h.28 And the LORD heard the voice of your wards, when ye spake unto me; and the LORD said unto me, I have heard the voice of the words of this people, which they have spoken unto thee: they have well said all that they have spoken.(KJV)

In the Old Testament only a few persons could actually hear God and experienced manifestations of the Holy Spirit, those being prophets, some priests and kings. Regrettably, because of this deficit, people desperate for answers would seek out prophets who would then either speak them the truth or lies, depending on what they were listening to. There is also indication that the people were afraid to hear God speak to them so they wanted their leaders, like Moses to tell them what God was saying.

THE NEW BIRTH REINSTATES THE INDIVIDUAL'S ABILITY TO HEAR GOD FOR THEMSELVES WITHOUT HAVING TO HAVE A PROPHET HEAR FOR THEM­

John 10:1 Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that entereth not by the door into the sheepfold, but climbeth up some other way, the same is a thief and a mbber.2 But he that entereth in by the door is the shepherd of the sheep.3 To him the porter openeth; and the sheep hear his voice: and he calleth his own sheep by name, and leadeth them out.4 And when he putteth forth his own sheep, he gceth before them, and the sheep follow him: for they know his voice.5 And a stranger will they not follow, but will flee from him: for they know not the voice of strangers.(KJV)

John 10:25-Jesus answered them, I told you, and ye believed not: the works that I do in my Father's name, they bear witness of me.26 But ye believe not, because ye are not of my sheep, as I said unto you.27 My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me:28 And I give unto them eternal life; and they shall never perish, neither shall any man pluck them out of my hand.(KJV)

MY SHEEP KNOW MY VOICE!

Eph 1:15-Wherefore I also, after I heard of your faith in the Lord Jesus, and love unto all the saints,16 Cease not to give thanks for you, making mention of you in my prayers;17 That the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may give unto you the spirit of wisdom and revelation in the knowledge of him:18 The eyes of your understanding being enlightened; that ye may know what is the hope of his calling, and what the riches of the glory of his inheritance in the saints,KJV

You have been given a promise. If you’ve believed on Jesus as your Lord and Savior, you can hear from God! It’s a guarantee and part of the package of salvation. Furthermore, Jesus stated that the Spirit would speak to us! (John 14:26; 16:13) The problem is, many Christians don’t believe it. So they repeatedly confess that they can’t hear God, essentially stopping their heart’s ears with their unbelief and reaping silence, or what’s worse, confusion. You need to realize this. God wants to speak to you and give you revelation! Paul beautifully wrote about this explaining that the Father of Glory will give you the spirit of wisdom (another aspect and name for the Holy Spirit) so that you might have revelation of who He is and that you would understand your spiritual inheritance and calling. You don’t have to remain ignorant.

John 10:1 Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that entereth not by the door into the sheepfold, but climbeth up some other way, the same is a thief and a mbber.2 But he that entereth in by the door is the shepherd of the sheep.3 To him the porter openeth; and the sheep hear his voice: and he calleth his own sheep by name, and leadeth them out.4 And when he putteth forth his own sheep, he gceth before them, and the sheep follow him: for they know his voice.5 And a stranger will they not follow, but will flee from him: for they know not the voice of strangers.(KJV)

The greatest challenge a vast majority of saints face is that they aren’t familiar with His voice. So they walk a spiritual road of hit and miss, without realizing they could enjoy the Spirit’s speaking to them on a daily basis. John 10:4 states specifically that His sheep know His voice! Perhaps we need to be taught the truth about this? The new birth has cleaned out your ears! You were re-created to hear the Spirit and recognize His voice. But it does take faith to realize this truth or any truth afforded the believer. Therefore, if you’re constantly saying that you can’t hear God, you probably won’t be able to discern or recognize when He speaks and reveals anything to you. Consequently, you will need to change what you're saying. What you speak is inevitably what you get! Furthermore, it is no coincidence that the words you say affect what you believe and obtain. Death and life are in the power of the tongue­. So change how you talk about how you hear from God.

Prov 18:20 A man's belly shall be satisfied with the fruit of his mouth; and with the increase of his lips shall he be filled.21 Death and life are in the power of the tongue: and they that love it shall eat the fruit thereof.(KJV)

Additionally, when you constantly doubt whether you have heard Him or not, for fear of being wrong, you also won’t hear Him clearly. Hearing God is not just about being right or wrong, it’s about relationship and obedience. Doubt and fear are often the cloaks for religious perfectionism or a lack of trusting God, and His Spirit in you. In the end, however, He leaves the choice to hear, up to you, but it is your responsibility to develop your hearing.

This knowing of His voice is also not a casual or accidental practice. The Greek word translated as “know” is defined in a very broad application. Therefore to know His voice involves numerous possibilities of how the Spirit of God expresses Himself.  This is accomplished through a variety of means. Knowing His voice can mean you “see” something the Spirit is revealing. This might be with your spiritual eyes, or your natural eyes and other senses. It also could refer to noticing Him. A lot of the times God’s Spirit may be speaking to us, but we don’t take notice because we aren’t in the constant frame of mind of inspecting, examining or discerning the things around us as coming from the Lord. Hearing the Spirit speak is not just referring to actual hearing a noise or sound. It’s much deeper than that.

THE LIFE OF NORMAL CHRISTIANITY IS ONE IN WHICH THE HOLY SPIRIT SPEAKS TRUTH         

If you aren’t enjoying the communication of the Holy Spirit, and expecting it to happen, you can start any time. Why be abnormal?

John 16:13 Howbeit when he, the Spirit of truth, is come, he will guide you into all truth: for he shall not speak of himself; but whatsoever he shall hear, that shall he speak: and he will shew you things to come.

A few of the practical descriptions for how the Spirit speaks are defined by the Greek words used when various passages indicate the Spirit is talking.

1. Sometimes the Spirit speaks in a manner that comes forth in the sound of a voice, as in uttering articulate sounds. Consider this reference.

Rev 10:4 And when the seven thunders had uttered their voices, I was about to write: and I heard a voice from heaven saying unto me, Seal up those things which the seven thunders uttered, and write them not. KJV

2. On other occasions, however, the Spirit uses a declarative manner of speaking without sound, but with inward impressions that other people may speak in the Spirit’s behalf.

             Consequently, this means we have to listen to what the Spirit speaks through other people, especially if we’re facing confrontational situations. It must also be noted that not everything the believer says as being the Word of Lord, comes from the Holy Spirit. Discern the truth with wisdom. There is a spirit of error. But if you remember what Jesus said in John 16:13, the Spirit speaks what is in accordance with what Jesus said and is consistent with Scripture. God is not double minded.

3. The Spirit also may speak, or say something, by spoken word and also through writing, that is authoritative, and bidding someone to do something. An example of this occurred when several early Church leaders had prayed and fasted. The Holy Spirit said, or better understood, commanded them to separate Barnabas and Saul to a specific work.

Acts 13:2 As they ministered to the Lord, and fasted, the Holy Ghost said, Separate me Barnabas and Saul for the work whereunto I have called them. (KJV)

4. Probably one of the most intensive aspects of the Spirit speaking is when a human being is used prophetically and the Spirit relates in detail, in a systematic fashion, the plans and thoughts of God concerning a specific matter. This example of the Spirit speaking is very commonly exhibited when the beloved apostle John wrote “the Spirit saith to the churches” in the book of Revelation.

Acts 21:10-And as we tarried there many days, there came down from Judaea a certain prophet, named Agabus.11 And when he was come unto us, he took Paul's girdle, and bound his own hands and feet, and said, Thus saith the Holy Ghost, So shall the Jews at Jerusalem bind the man that owneth this girdle, and shall deliver him into the hands of the Gentiles.(KJV)

Rev 2:7 He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches; To him that overcometh will I give to eat of the tree of life, which is in the midst of the paradise of God.(KJV) 2:11, 17,29; 3:6,13,22

Rev 14:13 And I heard a voice from heaven saying unto me, Write, Blessed are the dead which die in the Lord from henceforth: Yea, saith the Spirit, that they may rest from their labours; and their works do follow them.(KJV)

On one occasion, in the letter to Timothy from Paul, the apostle stated the Spirit spoke expressly about end time conditions. The Greek word translated as this can be further defined as the Spirit is outspoken, or distinct. Honestly, I deeply appreciate this aspect of how the Spirit speaks. We desperately need this today.

1 Tim 4:1-Now the Spirit speaketh expressly, that in the latter times some shall depart from the faith, giving heed to seducing spirits, and doctrines of devils;2 Speaking lies in hypocrisy; having their conscience seared with a hot iron;3 Forbidding to marry, and commanding to abstain from meats, which God hath created to be received with thanksgiving of them which believe and know the truth.

Obviously, much could be written about each of these manners of speaking. I would, however, like to develop this train of thought and teaching a bit further by mentioning how God is revealed in truth and through what different ways the Spirit will speak so that you won’t be left without practical ways to discern His communication. Let me please list the following ways that God is revealed in truth and how the ways the Spirit of God speaks to us today. He is always consistent and unchanging. We can trust Him to communicate to us faithfully if we will simply be responsible and pay attention.

GOD IS REVEALED AND THE SPIRIT SPEAKS IN THE FOLLOWING MANNERS

I will expound on MOST of these points in future blogs.

But consider the basic concepts in this list of how God is revealed and how the Spirit speaks truth!

NATURE AND CREATION

The Heavens declare the glory of God. This is one of the elements of creation that speaks of Him. Yes, creation has a voice! There are over 6000 biblical references that reinforce this. For example, the trees clap their hands. Yes it’s metaphorical, but what better way to demonstrate praise. The problem is that you must not be seduced by these voices. People love nature, sometimes so much so, that they ignore the other ways God is revealed in truth. I’m not a tree hugger. But I do know that God is revealed through the marvelous witness of the created things. Animism, however, is another thing entirely. We are not to worship the creation. The truths that the stars, trees, mountains and heavens declare should only stir us to worship Him more!

Ps 19:1 The heavens declare the glory of God; and the firmament sheweth his handywork. KJV

GOD IS REVEALED IN TRUTH AND THE SPIRIT SPEAKS TRUTH THROUGH HIS WORD. Thy word is a lamp!

Ps 119:105 Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path. KJV

                         

GOD IS REVEALED IN TRUTH AND THE SPIRIT SPEAKS TRUTH THROUGH WHAT IS IDENTIFIED IN SCRIPTURE AS THE INWARD WITNESS, THE CONSCIENCE AND PERCEPTION.

                        1. INWARD WITNESS- Rom. 8:16

                        2. CONSCIENCE- Rom. 2:15; 9:1; John 8:9

                        3. PERCEPTION- Mark 2:8; Lk. 5:22

GOD IS REVEALED IN TRUTH AND THE SPIRIT SPEAKS TRUTH THROUGH WHAT IS IDENTIFIED IN SCRIPTURE AS THE INWARD VOICE. Isa. 50:4-5

GOD IS REVEALED IN TRUTH AND THE SPIRIT SPEAKS TRUTH THROUGH WHAT’S IDENTIFIED IN SCRIPTURE AS THE AUDIBLE VOICE OF GOD. 1 Sam. 3:1-10

GOD IS REVEALED IN TRUTH AND THE SPIRIT SPEAKS TRUTH THROUGH PEACE, ESPECIALLY IN RELATIONSHIPS. Heb. 12:14

GOD IS REVEALED IN TRUTH AND THE SPIRIT SPEAKS TRUTH THROUGH DREAMS. Job 33:15; Deut. 13; Joel 2:28

GOD IS REVEALED IN TRUTH AND THE SPIRIT SPEAKS TRUTH THROUGH VISIONS.

GOD IS REVEALED IN TRUTH AND THE SPIRIT SPEAKS TRUTH THROUGH REVELATIONS. (Pictures, Mental Images) 1 Cor. 14:26

GOD IS REVEALED IN TRUTH AND THE SPIRIT SPEAKS TRUTH THROUGH ANGELS. Luke 1-2

GOD IS REVEALED IN TRUTH AND THE SPIRIT SPEAKS TRUTH THROUGH SPIRITUAL GIFTS. 1 Cor. 12

                        1. Prophecy

                        2. Tongues/ Interpretation

                        3. Word of knowledge

                        4. Word of Wisdom

GOD IS REVEALED IN TRUTH AND THE SPIRIT SPEAKS TRUTH THROUGH AUTHORITY FIGURES, SUCH AS TEACHERS AND PARENTS.

GOD IS REVEALED IN TRUTH AND THE SPIRIT SPEAKS TRUTH THROUGH ANIMALS. Balaam’s donkey- Numbers 22:28

GOD IS REVEALED IN TRUTH AND THE SPIRIT SPEAKS TRUTH THROUGH EXTERNAL INFLUENCES.

                                   

GOD IS REVEALED IN TRUTH AND THE SPIRIT SPEAKS TRUTH THROUGH FRUITFULNESS.  Matt. 7:16-17

GOD IS REVEALED IN TRUTH AND THE SPIRIT SPEAKS TRUTH THROUGH CIRCUMSTANCES, THOUGH RARELY IS THIS DEPENDABLE.

GOD IS REVEALED IN TRUTH AND THE SPIRIT SPEAKS TRUTH THROUGH HISTORY.

 Deut 32:7- Remember the days of old, consider the years of many generations: ask thy father, and he will shew thee; thy elders, and they will tell thee. 8 When the most High divided to the nations their inheritance, when he separated the sons of Adam, he set the bounds of the people according to the number of the children of Israel. (KJV)

 In conclusion, you can hear the Spirit speak! You just need to learn how He communicates and the things to be aware of when He does so. This is an adventure every Christian was created for. What a wonderful opportunity to know that we can link up with heaven? We'll look at more about how the Spirit speaks in the articles to come. I trust this is helpful to you!