Episode 241: Discerning God’s Voice in the Noise

Write this Down! with Dot Bowen

How do we know if it’s the Holy Spirit speaking or just our own thoughts? In today’s conversation, Dot and Cara unpack a common question believers wrestle with: discerning God’s voice. Looking at John 14:16–18, they explore the role of the Holy Spirit and the peace that comes from obedience even when we’re unsure. Grab your Bible, journal, and a cup of coffee, and join the conversation as Dot and Cara remind us that hearing from God is rooted in an ongoing relationship, not perfection.

Got a question about today’s episode or something else you’d like to hear us talk about on the show? Let us know!

Episode recap:

• Start by writing down John 14:16-18 (0:10)
• How do I know if it’s the Holy Spirit or just my own thoughts? (1:07)
• How do you discern God’s voice? (3:46)
• It’s okay to act on what the Spirit is telling you imperfectly (5:45)
• Always ask God, “is this true?” (9:30)
• God, if you want me to say something to them, have them bring it up. (12:04)
• Sometimes it’s not what’s wrong or right, but what is the wise thing to do? (16:54)
• Just start the conversation: “God, this is what I think you’re telling me to do...” (20:17)

Are you interested in having Dot come and speak to your community? Email us at [email protected].

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Scripture Verse:

John 14:16-18 (NASB1995) “I will ask the Father, and He will give you another Helper, that He may be with you forever;that is the Spirit of truth, whom the world cannot receive, because it does not see Him or know Him, but you know Him because He abides with you and will be in you. I will not leave you as orphans; I will come to you.”

Check out the book, Familiar Stranger by Tyler Staton: https://amzn.to/4q6XPLn

Andy Stanley’s book, The Best Question Ever: https://amzn.to/4hesGli