How Do I Hear The Holy Spirit? Part 2

Opener 1. Have you ever missed something that was right in front of you, only to have someone point it out? What happened? 2. When do you feel most aware, attentive, or present in your everyday life? What helps you slow down enough to notice what is going on around you? Discussion 1. Read 1 Kings 19:11-12. Elijah expected to encounter God in dramatic displays of power, but God came in a gentle whisper. Why do you think we are often drawn to the spectacular while God frequently works through the subtle? 2. One of the themes from this week’s message was that hearing God is often less about learning a special skill and more about growing in awareness of a relationship that already exists. 3. Read John 17:3 and John 14:26. How does it change your understanding of “hearing God” when you think of it primarily as growing in relationship rather than receiving special messages? 4. Jane shared that Jesus restored more than forgiveness; He restored our ability to live in ongoing communion with God through the Holy Spirit. Looking at the “Journey of Restoration” diagram, which part of the journey stands out to you most right now: Creation, The Fall, The Cross, The Holy Spirit Given, or The Invitation? Why? 5. The sermon also explored how our minds, emotions, bodies, and life experiences affect our ability to recognize God’s presence. Looking at the “Nervous State” diagram, what stood out to you? Have you ever noticed that stress, fear, exhaustion, or anxiety affected your ability to experience peace, pray, or discern God’s leading? 6. Discernment thrives in safety. The goal is not achieving certainty but growing in trust, awareness, and connection with God. Jane talked about practices such as reflection, imagination, journaling, movement, and slowing down. Which of these feels most natural to you? Which one stretches you outside your comfort zone? Application This week, set aside 5-10 minutes each day to slow down and become aware of God’s presence. What specific practice will you try (silence, Scripture reflection, journaling, imaginative prayer, gratitude, walking, or another practice), and when will you do it? Close in Prayer Spend time thanking God that through Jesus He has already come near and given us His Holy Spirit. Ask the Holy Spirit to help each person become more aware of His presence, recognize His gentle guidance, and grow in confidence that they are never walking alone.