I remember times when I would leave home, almost at my destination, when a thought would hit like a bolt of lightning: Did I unplug the iron? God used that disturbing question to teach me a powerful lesson on how to discern His voice.
One morning after spending an enjoyable time with God, I had a speaking engagement at the church and I didn’t have any spare time if I wanted to make it there on time. While I was pleasantly driving down the expressway, suddenly my thoughts shifted: Did I unplug the iron?
That’s when God dropped this into my spirit:
- Why would I let you leave home with the iron plugged in right after we had such good time together?
- Why would I wait until you got on the expressway to remind you? I don’t operate like that. The devil wants you to put your attention on the iron and off your presentation. It’s a trick—don’t fall for it!
What earthly father wouldn’t warn his child of danger? Our heavenly Father Who is omniscient will do even more.
When negative thoughts pop into our heads, especially when they interrupt a stream of positive ones, it should prompt us to think: Is this the enemy trying to distract my thinking? What is he up to?
Sometimes discerning God’s voice isn’t as mysterious as we make it out to be. The more we learn about His character through His Word, the easier it becomes to recognize His voice. The relationship that builds when we spend one-on-one time with God is what makes His voice distinguishable from all the chatter that we hear throughout the day.
Foolishness will flash like a neon sign.
In Proverbs 3:6 it says: In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.
The steps of a good man are ordered by the LORD: and he delighteth in his way.
Though he fall, he shall not be utterly cast down: for the LORD upholdeth him with his hand. (Psalm 37:23-24)
Cross-examine what you’re hearing with God’s Word.
My new response when the devil tries to invade my mind with that iron foolishness:
© 2017
God will unplug it!
See you next week on Paulette Talks Faith.
The Paulette Talks Faith Workbook contains topics and questions placed around situations to get people talking and thinking more about how they can use the power of faith in their everyday lives. Even though the questions are voiced for group discussions, they can be adapted for self-analysis and personal growth. As powerful as faith is, it still has to be developed just like a muscle in your body. These group sessions will exercise your faith muscles as you learn from the experiences that others will share. The Paulette Talks Faith Workbook is the tool to assist in that development. It’s excellent material for: Church workshops, small group chats, or individual study. Click here to order your copy of the Paulette Talks Faith Workbook.
