One mysterious part of being a Christian is discerning the voice of the Holy Spirit in our lives. Most often, he speaks to us directly through his word in our Bibles. When someone reads the Bible, it is the “Sword of the Spirit” that cuts into our lives. Every person who follows Jesus believes this to some degree.

How else does the Holy Spirit speak to us? I believe he can speak through preachers and teachers who explain what the Bible says. He can also use books, podcasts, and even lowly blogs like this one.

How else can the Holy Spirit work? He can use circumstances and events to show us which doors are open and which are closed. He can nudge our conscience in prayer. Possibly even speak to us with a still, small voice.

I also believe the Holy Spirit can speak to us through other believers. This one is often the most complicated for people to believe.

While speaking with another pastor about getting people to step up as volunteers, he suggested, “I just ask the Holy Spirit to lay it on their heart to get involved.” It sounds noble and deeply spiritual. My response was much more basic: “I simply tell them that they need to be involved to be a part of our membership.”

You see, I have read the Bible, prayed, watched people grow in their faith, and seen the impact of serving in a Church community, and I am sure God desires to see them serve. So, I get to play the role of the Holy Spirit in their lives. I can speak and tell them what they need to do with their faith.

Amazingly enough, the Holy Spirit uses people to share his message and direction. In fact, in the Bible, he uses people more than anything else to further his work. As Christians, we rarely need to withdraw, go into nature, and sit quietly until we hear God speak. Instead, we need to read our Bibles, pray, and talk to mature believers. His voice is the clearest in community, but it is the easiest place to ignore it. Perhaps God is using the person challenging you to be the Holy Spirit’s voice in your life. Are you even listening?