Journey Through The Bible
    Old Testament Reading: Isaiah 13-16
    New Testament Reading: Acts 22

Now those who were with me saw the light, but they did not hear the voice of the one who was speaking to me (Acts 22:9).

Before Paul’s conversion, he believed the “official Jewish Position” that Jesus of Nazareth was an imposter. That He had been crucified and His body stolen from the tomb by His disciples, who started the rumor that Jesus had been raised from the dead. Imagine Paul’s amazement to discover that Jesus was indeed alive!

Before the Bible was completed, God’s followers heard His voice through the Old Testament writings, prophecies, visions, and dreams. Such was the case with the Apostle Paul, who encountered the risen Christ. Paul’s companions did not understand the voice of Jesus because they were not empowered with discernment to do so.

Paul’s companions on the road to Damascus saw the light and heard a sound, but did not understand the voice. Jesus said, My sheep hear my voice, I know them, and they follow me (John 10:27). The Holy Spirit empowers the sheep to distinguish God’s voice from the noise of the world.

People may go through the same circumstances, but not everyone will understand or see how those events develop another’s spiritual journey. Without discernment given by the Holy Spirit and an understanding of the Bible, the directions seem meaningless.

If members of our family, friends, or associates are not walking with the Lord, they will not be as sensitive to the leading of the Holy Spirit. Be wise. Not everyone can hear the voice of Jesus through the Holy Spirit and Scripture. Be cautious of counsel received from anyone who does not profess to be a Christian. Seek advice from those who are mature in the faith, those who hear the voice of Jesus, are known by Him, and follow Jesus walking closely with Him.