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<title>The Bible: Hearing God’s Voice in His Word</title>
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<h1>The Bible: Hearing God’s Voice in His Word</h1>

<h3>Learning to Listen to God Through Scripture</h3>

<h2>1. Why the Bible Matters for a New Believer</h2>

<p class="lead dropcap">When you place your faith in Jesus, a new relationship begins—one in which God invites you to know Him personally. The primary way He speaks today is through the Bible. Scripture is not just a collection of ancient writings; it is God’s living, active Word, meant to guide, comfort, convict, and transform your life.</p>

<p>As a new believer, learning to hear God’s voice in Scripture is foundational. It’s how you grow to recognize His heart, His will, and His ways.</p>

<h2>2. What the Bible Says About Itself</h2>

<p>The Bible makes bold claims about its nature and purpose:</p>

<ul>
<li><strong>It is inspired by God.</strong></li>
</ul>

<div class="scripture">“All Scripture is breathed out by God…”<span class="ref">— 2 Timothy 3:16</span></div>

<ul>
<li><strong>It gives life and spiritual growth.</strong></li>
</ul>

<div class="scripture">“Man shall not live by bread alone…”<span class="ref">— Matthew 4:4</span></div>

<ul>
<li><strong>It reveals God’s character.</strong><br>Scripture shows us who God is—holy, loving, faithful, patient, wise, and just.</li>
</ul>

<ul>
<li><strong>It directs our steps.</strong></li>
</ul>

<div class="scripture">“Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.”<span class="ref">— Psalm 119:105</span></div>

<p>These truths reassure us that when we open the Bible, we are opening the very words God intended us to hear.</p>

<h2>3. How God Speaks Through Scripture</h2>

<p>Hearing from God through the Bible does not always come as an emotional feeling or a dramatic moment. More often, it comes through:</p>

<ul>
<li><strong>Understanding the meaning of the passage</strong><br>God speaks through the plain meaning of Scripture. As you read, ask:<br>“What is this saying about God? About people? About life?”</li>

<li><strong>The Spirit illuminating the text</strong><br>The Holy Spirit helps believers understand, apply, and delight in God’s Word.<br>Jesus promised:</li>
</ul>

<div class="scripture">“He will teach you all things…”<span class="ref">— John 14:26</span></div>

<ul>
<li><strong>Conviction and encouragement</strong><br>Sometimes a verse brings comfort. Other times it exposes sin or redirects your thinking. This is God’s voice shaping your heart.</li>

<li><strong>Guidance for decisions</strong><br>While Scripture doesn’t name every modern situation, it gives principles, wisdom, and examples that guide your steps.</li>
</ul>

<h2>4. How to Begin Listening to God Through His Word</h2>

<p>Here are simple, practical steps to develop a Scripture-rooted relationship with God:</p>

<h3>1. Make a Daily Habit</h3>

<p>Even 10–15 minutes a day goes a long way. Start with:</p>

<ul>
<li>The Gospel of John</li>
<li>Psalms</li>
<li>Genesis</li>
<li>Or a beginner’s reading plan</li>
</ul>

<p>Consistency matters more than speed.</p>

<h3>2. Pray Before You Read</h3>

<p>Ask God to speak clearly:<br>“Lord, open my eyes to understand Your Word.”</p>

<p>This positions your heart to listen.</p>

<h3>3. Read Slowly, Not Rushed</h3>

<p>Pause if something stands out. Don’t try to “finish a chapter”—try to meet with God.</p>

<h3>4. Ask Good Questions</h3>

<ul>
<li>What does this teach me about God?</li>
<li>Is there a command to obey?</li>
<li>Is there a promise to trust?</li>
<li>Is there a sin to avoid?</li>
<li>How should this change my life?</li>
</ul>

<p>These questions turn reading into communion with God.</p>

<h3>5. Write Down What God Shows You</h3>

<p>A journal helps you remember insights, prayers, and lessons. Over time, you will see patterns of God’s faithfulness.</p>

<h2>5. What If You Don’t Understand Everything?</h2>

<p>Every believer—new or mature—encounters passages that feel confusing. That’s normal. God never asked you to understand everything at once. He simply invites you to:</p>

<ul>
<li>Keep reading</li>
<li>Keep asking questions</li>
<li>Keep growing</li>
<li>Keep trusting the Spirit to teach you</li>
</ul>

<p>Think of Scripture like a deep well: you can drink from it even before you understand its depth.</p>

<h2>6. A Few Encouraging Promises for Your Journey</h2>

<p>Here are truths to anchor your heart as you learn to hear God’s voice:</p>

<ul>
<li>God delights to teach you.</li>
</ul>

<div class="scripture">“The Lord gives wisdom…”<span class="ref">— Proverbs 2:6</span></div>

<ul>
<li>God rewards those who seek Him.</li>
</ul>

<div class="scripture">“He is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him.”<span class="ref">— Hebrews 11:6</span></div>

<ul>
<li>God’s Word will never fail you.</li>
</ul>

<div class="scripture">“The word of our God will stand forever.”<span class="ref">— Isaiah 40:8</span></div>

<p>You’re not reading alone—God Himself walks with you.</p>

<h2>7. A Simple Prayer</h2>

<p>Lord, thank You for giving me Your Word. Help me love it, understand it, and obey it. Open my heart to hear Your voice in Scripture and to follow You with joy. Amen.</p>

<h2>8. Final Encouragement</h2>

<p>As you follow Jesus, reading Scripture will become one of the most rewarding rhythms of your life. The Bible is not merely a book—it is God’s voice, speaking personally, lovingly, and powerfully to you.</p>

<p>Every time you open it, God is inviting you deeper into relationship with Him.</p>

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