[Q & A]: How Can I Hear the Holy Spirit More Effectively?

1. Focus on the Word.

One of the most effective ways to improve your ability to hear the Holy Spirit is by focusing on God’s Word. In John 15:7, Jesus said, “But if you remain in me and my words remain in you, you may ask for anything you want, and it will be granted!” How do you know when you have been focusing enough on the Word? The Holy Spirit talks to you through it! He directs your thoughts as you go about your day. You have to be diligent to read your Bible and reflect on it every day and obey it. Treat it like the priceless treasure it is.

2. Listen to God’s people.

The Holy Spirit isn’t just speaking to you. He’s speaking to all of God’s people. Sometimes those people have received a message from the Lord for the Church, like when the Lord spoke through the apostles or when He gives Kenneth Copeland a prophecy. Other times, the Holy Spirit uses those people to share a special message specifically for you. By listening to trusted faith ministers and even Spirit-led friends and family members, you can hear the Holy Spirit’s direction.

Now, that doesn’t mean you should listen to every person, or even every Christian, who believes that God wants them to tell you something. Make sure those people are Spirit-filled, Spirit-led and full of faith.

3. Listen in prayer.

Do you find yourself doing all the talking in your prayer time with the Lord? If you never get quiet enough to listen, how will you ever hear what the Holy Spirit is speaking to your heart?

When you pray, spend some time praising God for His goodness and thanking Him for all He has done for you (Psalm 100:4). Then ask Him for what you need (Philippians 4:13). After that, get quiet. Prayer is not a one-way conversation. Make sure you give the Holy Spirit a chance to speak. He may bring a scripture or song to your mind. He may bring a person to mind who needs prayer. Or He may give you direction for your day or even an answer to a prayer request.

The Holy Spirit is talking. It’s up to you to hear Him clearly. By putting these keys into practice, you’ll improve your ability to hear the Holy Spirit, and have the joy of living a Spirit-led life!