Is it God’s voice or my own?
I don’t always hear from God, to be honest. There have been seasons when that still small voice is clear and well - loud in my head. But…there have been other seasons when I long to hear His voice. And in between all that is a nagging question that I get asked alot in coaching sessions. How do I know if it’s God’s voice or willful thinking?
If you’re anything like me, you may have felt a nudge toward something new but immediately questioned, "Wait… is this really from God, or is this just me?" If so, you’re not alone. Discernment is one of the most common and most misunderstood parts of walking with God—especially in midlife, when the stakes feel high and the timeline feels short.
The truth? God does speak. And He wants you to know His voice.
So how do you discern whether it's Him or your own thoughts? Here are 3 ways to tune in:
1. God’s Voice Always Aligns with His Word
When you feel like you’ve heard from God, the first stop should be God’s Word. This may feel obvious, but God’s voice won’t contradict His Word. If the idea or prompting you’re sensing contradicts Scripture—it’s not from Him. Period.
"My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me." — John 10:27
God will never lead you to act out of fear, selfish ambition, or desperation. His voice leads to conviction, not condemnation—freedom, not fear.
If you feel like you’re not hearing God’s voice, that can happen. Sometimes He’s calling us to wait. And sometimes He’s asking us to sit with him. I like to say one of the best ways to hear from God is to cultivate an environment where He can speak to your heart. Spending regular time in His Word, in prayer, and in worship can cultivate an environment where He speaks and we hear His voice.
2. God’s Voice Brings Peace
If you’re anything like me, you may have mixed feelings about hearing God’s voice. On the one hand, we’re desperate to know we’re following God’s will. But…on the other hand - what if He calls me to Africa? (I think I may be dating myself with that one). The reality is that we can trust His voice and His plan. God’s guidance may stretch you, but it won’t panic you. His voice is steady and filled with love for you.
"And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus." — Philippians 4:7
If what you think you’re hearing from God brings a quiet sense of clarity in prayer or Scripture, lean in. God rarely shouts. He whispers to those who are willing to slow down and listen. And don’t be afraid to take an imperfect step and check in with God (as my friend Becky used to tell me, “God can’t steer a parked car”).
3. God Confirms Through Repetition and People
Back when I felt called to leave my job at the church and focus on what’s next, I had all these same questions. Was that really from God? Or have I started hearing voices?
And…so I did what any sane woman in her late 30s would do. I sought some wise counsel. I asked God to confirm (a little like Gideon) and I got together with people who knew God me well to seek wisdom.
What I found is that God often repeats Himself. You might hear the same message in a sermon, Scripture, conversation, or even a podcast. He also uses wise counsel to affirm what He's already telling you.
"For lack of guidance a nation falls, but victory is won through many advisers." — Proverbs 11:14
If those who know and love you affirm what you’re hearing and if you keep hearing the same nudge from different directions, it may be time to pay attention and start moving in that direction.
Ready for More?
While God’s voice will ultimately bring peace on the journey He has you on, those first few steps can feel crazy scary. But as you step out and trust Him — you will find He speaks more readily and gives you the courage to follow one baby step at a time. And if you're ready to take a bold step into clarity, let's discern what God is inviting you into—together.
