(Hebrews 12:25) Do not refuse God who speaks to us.

The topic of God speaking to us personally is debated among Christians. Some Christians insist that God speaks to us only through the Bible.

Others are uncomfortable with the idea that God speaks through the Holy Spirit who lives within us. The thought of God speaking directly to us can feel a little scary to them.

Others—like myself—believe the New Testament clearly teaches that God speaks directly to us through the Holy Spirit. In fact, the Holy Spirit communicates with me daily. This is normal Christian living for me.

It is rare for the Holy Spirit to speak to us audibly, although there have been times in my Christian walk when it seemed very close. Usually, however, God speaks to us through internal convictions, deep impressions, mental phrases or words, or even dreams.

When the Holy Spirit speaks to us, it is not usually a momentary feeling, but a consistent awareness that can often last for several weeks. In other words, we cannot ignore Him.

Usually, when God speaks to us through the Holy Spirit, it relates to our lives for our spiritual growth, or it provides directional guidance for something He wants us to do.

Hebrews 12:25 gives us a warning: Make sure that we do not ignore God when He speaks to us.

When we know the Holy Spirit is speaking to us, it is spiritually dangerous not to respond. That would be direct resistance against God.

We serve a dynamic, living God who speaks and acts.

God is not a static rock.

Be sure to have ears to hear God's voice speaking to us every day. The more we open our hearts to interact with the Holy Spirit, the more natural it becomes to hear His voice.

I encourage you to open your heart without hesitation and ask God to speak to you, convict you, and guide you. I also encourage you to wake up each morning longing to hear God's voice of mercy and love.

He is our Shepherd, and his sheep hear his voice.

When you hear him, be sure to obey and follow him.