LaVerne

(Ephesians 2:1-3; 1 John 2:16). Give an example of what the voice of the flesh -- our lusts and desires -- might sound like. Give an example of what the voice of the world might sound like. Give an example of what the voice of the devil might sound like. Why is a knowledge of the Scripture necessary for discernment of these voices? Anything that puts me n the throne of my heart is from the world, flesh or devil. I know immediately that it is wrong because it goes against what the Bible teaches.

(Hebrews 5:14) Why will a person have to make mistakes in the process of learning to discern God's voice? If mistakes are part of the process, how can this be of God at all? When I learn something by making a mistake. I do not forget it. The result didn't come easily

((Judges 6:36-38; Psalm 95:7-10) Does Gideon ask for a sign because of his unbelief? What is the difference between Gideon's seeking confirmation, and "testing God" in a way that displeases God? Does God mind if we ask for confirmation? When might God be upset with us for asking for confirmation? It all depends on the state of my heart. God cannot be fooled by words - He knows my heart.

How can pride corrupt our hearing from God? Pride causes us to take credit for things God actually causes to happen and we wander around our own world without listening for His voice How do we protect ourselves from being deceived by our pride? My best defense is to ask God to point out my pride immediately and stop me from taking credit for what He did

(Psalm 32:8-9; John 7:17) Why is a willingness to obey without understanding the reasons for God's commands so important? because He sees the future and knows what is best for us How does obedience sometimes help us understand God's workings.When we see the end we see what He knew

(1 Samuel 3:7; Hosea 6:3; Philippians 3:10-14) Why is a desire for a relationship with God more important than seeking to hear his voice? I believe that when I have a relationship with God I WILL hear HIS VOICE. How does hearing his voice contribute to the relationship? In every relationship there is communication Why are we commanded to "press in" to know the Lord? We are close to those we care about. How does Paul's passion for a relationship with God inspire you? He worked on it. I press toward the mark

(1 Samuel 3:1-10) What was Eli's counsel to Samuel, when he recognized that God was calling to the boy? He told Samuel to go back to bed and when God called to say speak LORD for thy servant heareth Was it good counsel? yes What is the significance of Samuel recognizing that he is a servant? God tells us what to do and we do it. We do indeed serve Him

(Acts 16:6-10; Psalm 27:14) Why does God sometimes not talk to us? He is also teaching us things during the waiting. Is it always because we aren't receptive? No What should we do when we don't hear anything from God? Keep preparing. Read the Bible. Pray

(Acts 5:1-11; 8:23; 14:8-10) Sometimes God nudges you by giving you insight into the spiritual state of people around you. What should you be asking God about once you receive this insight about them? I should ask for direction and guidance. I should ask how I can minister to them. Have you ever had a nudge from God that resulted in a person receiving help? Often What did you learn from this? Be humble and open to God's leading. Don't take any credit for what He accomplishes through me

(2 Samuel 5:19, 22-25) What's the similarity between God's brief, inarticulate nudges or promptings, and David's use of the Urim and Thummim to receive direction? They both are guidance from God. What happens when David needs more than a "yes" or "no" answer? God gives more detailed direction.

Q1. (Acts 8:26-40; 16:6-10) Are promptings from the Holy Spirit clear enough when we're seeking God for direction? yes, and even when I'm not thinking about seeking direction, He still gives it. Why is "no" just as important an answer as "yes"? It's like someone giving directions to turn left or right. You won't get there if you don't follow them Have you ever felt God's promptings to take some action? If you followed through, what happened? yes, I was prompted to give a missionary, who was home on furlough, some money. I gave the money and a few weeks later I received a bonus that was 10 times what I had given her.

Q4. (Acts 10:19-20) Why was it important for Simon to get a very clear command from the Spirit to go with his visitors? This was something new to him and if it had not been clear he may have thought that he imagined the command. What would he have done if the word weren't so clear? Not bothered with the gentiles. What does he do when criticized for taking this action (Acts 11:2, 12)? He is sure that it is God's will. What kind of faith does it take to obey the Spirit and take an action you know you'll be criticized for later? Strong faith Do you disobey when you know you might face criticism for obedience? Not so much any more as I have grown in my faith

Q3. (Acts 19:21; 20:22-24; 21:12-14) What would have happened if Paul hadn't been sure of his instructions from the Holy Spirit to go to Jerusalem? Well, think about Jonah. When God wants something done, it gets done. Would you have tried to dissuade him? Yes, if I had feared for his life. It's comforting to receive encouraging words. What level of maturity does it take to receive a direction that might lead us into hardship and danger? It takes a great deal of maturity, but it also causes growth. What happens when we choose the easy way, when God leads us on a difficult path? We miss opportunity and reward.

Q2. (2 Corinthians 12:9a; Acts 18:9-10; 23:11; 27:24) How do you think it feels to Paul for God to personally encourage him when he is afraid and hurting? What do we learn about God that he speaks to Paul in this way? Paul had already heard from God on the day he was chosen to serve God, so he should not have been surprised to hear from God again. God was personal to him. This personal God also willing showed Paul His love.

Q1. (1 Kings 17-19) Why do you think the author contrasts the "still small voice" to the wind, earthquake, and fire? How does God's voice comfort and renew Elijah? Why is it easy to miss God when his voice is gentle and quiet? We know that God is all-powerful, so we expect Him to approach with noise. The still small voice is so gentle and really shows God's love.