One of the key things you need to start with, if at all possible, is a quiet place where you can pour your heart out to God without interuption. One of the best places you can try is sitting in your car. It is normally best if you are not driving at the time but one of the two times I heard the Lord speak was when I was singing the song “How lovely on the mountain are the feet of Him who brings good news” when a voice said “that is talking about my second coming!” “I just said oh thank you Lord” or something like that. When I got home I checked and sure enough that is what it was referring to1
A lot of the time you just get a quick thought and answer which is easy to miss . Many instances are just feeling the presence of the Lord and you know the answer or direction without words being spoken.
When reading scripture you may find something makes sense that didn’t before. This is called a rhema word and is straight from the Lord. You may have read the same verse many times before and even thought it meant something else but if the Lord highlights it pay attention.
Many Christians write a journal and then ask God to write to them through the pages. Mark Virkler writes many books and runs courses on this. www.cwgministries.org
God may guide you through open or closed doors but discernment is needed if it does not feel right.
If you have doubts about a message ask God to confirm it or seek council from someone you trust, If it from the Holy Spirit you should feel some peace about it.
Remember the answer may not come instantly and you have to be patient. Remember Daniel prayed to God and it was delayed by Satan 21 days. God had to send out His warrior angels to get the message through.
In summary: Find a quiet spot, Pray, Listen, Wait
We shall update this article to include the spiritual senses as soon as possible
