Very early on in my nephew’s life, my sister could understand what he was trying to communicate. No matter what mode of communication he used — loud or soft cries, baby sign language or incoherent speech, she would know what he wanted. He’s three now, and if he says something too fast or if he mispronounces something, she still knows what he’s saying.

They have a connection. Not only has she been with him almost every day since his birth, but she also takes time to talk to him, listen to him and learn his personality. Through this relationship, she can understand him clearly.

Just as we get to know our children, our spouse and our friends, this is the same way we can get to know God — by spending time with Him. Discerning God’s voice from our own, or someone else’s, is really as simple as spending as much time with Him as we can. The more we read our Bibles, pray, journal, meditate on scripture, the more we will understand who God is and the more we will be able to discern His voice. Just as you would lean in to hear someone better, we can lean into our quiet time with God to hear Him better.

“Draw near to God, and he will draw near to you.” (James 4:8a ESV)

If you’re struggling with how to pray, here’s a suggested reading: How to Pray (Quick Guide). If you’re struggling with what to read in your Bible, just open it and start reading. All scripture is beneficial and God-breathed. So, it doesn’t matter where you begin, just begin.

“All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the servant of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work.” (2 Timothy 3:16‭-‬17 NIV)

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