HEARING FROM GOD | ACTS 16:4-10 | PASTOR JAKE

How do we recognize God’s voice? What should we do when His leading challenges our plans? And how can we remain open to the Holy Spirit while carefully testing what we hear? In “Hearing from God,” part of our Clarity series, Pastor Jake explores Acts 16:4–10, where Paul and his companions encounter unexpected restrictions before receiving direction to Macedonia. Their experience raises an important question: Why would the Holy Spirit prevent them from preaching in certain places when Jesus had commanded His followers to take the gospel to the world? This message explores the relationship between God’s revealed Word and His personal direction in our lives. Hearing from God calls for humility, attentiveness, and discernment. When we believe God is speaking—or speak on His behalf—we carry a responsibility to handle His truth carefully. At the heart of this message is a foundational question: “What does the Bible say?” Pastor Jake considers dreams, visions, prophetic words, and impressions of the heart, emphasizing the importance of testing what we hear against Scripture. We are encouraged to welcome the Spirit’s work, weigh what is shared, and hold firmly to what is good. In this message, we explore: • The Holy Spirit’s guidance in the mission of the early church. • Scripture’s authority in discerning God’s voice. • The responsibility that comes with saying, “God said.” • The importance of testing prophetic words and spiritual impressions. • Making room to listen and respond to God in everyday life. Four practical encouragements: 1. Stay grounded in Scripture. 2. Make time to hear God. 3. Quiet yourself and listen. 4. Exercise discernment. Whether you are seeking direction, facing an unexpected change of plans, or learning to recognize God’s leading, this message invites you to deepen your relationship with Him and approach spiritual guidance with biblical wisdom. 📖 Main passage: Acts 16:4–10 📖 Supporting Scriptures: Matthew 28:18–20; Acts 1:8; 2 Timothy 3:16–17; 1 Thessalonians 5:19–22; 1 Corinthians 14:29; John 14:26; Psalm 139 Series: Clarity Message: Hearing from God Speaker: Pastor Jake 💬 Join the conversation: What helps you slow down, listen to God, and test what you believe He is saying? Share this message with someone seeking God’s direction, and subscribe for more biblical teaching. #HearingFromGod #ClaritySeries #HolySpirit #BiblicalDiscernment #Acts16 #Bible-believing #Spiritfilled #Gospelcentered