Hearing God in a winter season

Hearing God in a winter season

Aug 24, 2025 | 0 comments

 

Episode Description:

Winter can be a time of withdrawal, retreat, stagnation, and closure. A time for transitions and endings. It can be a bleak and disheartening season, where you endure and wait longingly, struggling to hear God and perhaps feeling distant from Him. A time when you may be tempted to pull away from God or feel that God is silent. We unpack why it is so important not to ‘camp’ in this season but to move through it. We ask the question, ‘what if the goal of this season was learning to wait well?’ and how that may well change our attitude throughout this season, as waiting can be a spiritual discipline. We also explore how ‘why’ questions can often be fruitless and examine what can be helpful instead. Join us as we explore hearing God during the winter season and offer practical suggestions on how to handle the waiting.

 

Episode Notes:

  • Winter is a season of winding down—withdrawal, retreat, and closure. It is a time for transitions and endings; everything dies, and you hunker down to weather the winter. It is usually seen as a season of waiting.
  • During spring, you plant new things, and they spring up.
  • During summer, the crop is mature, and you are busy harvesting.
  • During autumn/fall, a bit of harvesting takes place, but change is ushered in.
  • During winter, opportunities can wither, circumstances can change, or they can stagnate. Purpose can be hidden. Confusion and disorientation, hibernation can be common. You may feel hopeless or isolated. Tempted to pull away from God due to not hearing or sensing Him, but it is an opportunity and invitation to lean in even closer. It’s as if time is slower, so what may have been instant recognition of God’s voice may take longer.
  • It’s in this season where it’s only you and God. It’s time to grow closer to Him for His warmth, and it’s time to learn to hear Him better.  It’s the season where you will learn to adopt God’s mindset while walking with Him and building your spiritual muscles along the way.
  • The season of waiting is hard. It can be painful. It can be disheartening. You may feel excited initially, but you may gradually lose that sense of excitement as time passes slowly. You may feel rejected or dejected. You may be waiting for a baby, a job, a partner, a healing, etc
  • It is more about how we handle the waiting. What we can do to keep the faith, to keep the joy in the journey and not let the despair, the dejection, the current circumstances overwhelm us.
  • Waiting is a transition. A preparation. An opportunity. A spiritual discipline.

How we view the wilderness is important.

  • Lie – I’ve messed up. Often the wilderness is sprung upon us, we don’t choose it. Everything has been going well, but suddenly things don’t turn out quite as you had hoped. Unexpected loss, work dries up. Burnout, feeling dry and spiritually disconnected. Truth – invitation to draw closer to God. It is not a punishment. You are not in exile. You are walking through. Like the dry bones in Ezekiel 37. What do you see? May need to look again and see through new/fresh eyes.
  • Lie – this is a wasted season. Truth – it is a season of preparation. A rest. Getting prepared for a ‘suddenly’. A stripping back. Doesn’t seem productive. Instead, a time of heart work. Spiritually prepare for the new growth. Slow, quiet moments.
  • Lie – nothing good can grow here. Truth – the desert can be a time of beauty. First look – barren, dry, shrubby plants, but closer inspection – hidden beauty. Isaiah 35:1 “The desert and the parched land will be glad; the wilderness will rejoice and blossom.” Renewal is important.
  • Tempted to ask the why questions? Dryness in faith. The reality is that it is an opportunity to confront the idols in your life and the place Jesus holds.
  • The wilderness and winter season reveal your identity. Everything is stripped bare. Who am I? The growth comes from the inner work you do here.

How can you steward this waiting season for your best outcome?

  1. Determine which season you are in.
  • Signs you’re here in this season – dry barrenness in relationship with God. The usual ways of connecting with God are no longer working. You may even be unsure what you believe or question whether God cares or exists. May feel no purpose. Closed doors. Hopes and expectations often fail to match reality. God appears silent.

Some initial questions to ask include:

  • Is this a season to share with a lot of people or to have one or two close confidants or just with God?
  • Who do you need to support you in this season?
  • What do you need to do?
  • Who do you need to become to be able to steward it when the promise comes?
  • Where do you need to grow so that you are ready and able to properly steward the promise when it becomes evident in your life? What character traits, physical abilities, and intellectual requirements will be necessary so that you can steward the outcome?
  • What can you focus on now?
  • Do you need someone to keep you accountable?
  • Embrace the quiet, the stillness. Turn from the usual patterns of dealing with stuff and start afresh. Learn to wait patiently on God. Dig deep wells during this time.
  • It is an opportunity to clarify your identity and purpose. A place of refinement and realignment.
  • A Biblical example is David. God anointed David to be king when he was about 15 years old. Afterwards, he returned to being a shepherd boy and wouldn’t take the throne until he was about 30 years old. When he went back to being a shepherd, it may have seemed like he was in winter. God had anointed him, but here he was still in the fields. Where was the throne? David needed to go through his winter season because it was during this season that God taught him how to be a good shepherd.  He protected the sheep from lions and bears and ensured their needs were taken care of. He learned to look beyond himself, and this translated into him becoming king and shepherd of God’s people.  His descendant Jesus would become the ultimate shepherd.
  • So, embrace your spiritual season of winter.  Learn what God is teaching you.  I know it may be hard, but it’s for your good and God’s glory.
  1. How can you remain content whilst waiting? How can you ‘wait’ well?
  • The Apostle Paul, in the Bible, is renowned for his writings on contentment. He wrote the letter to the Philippians whilst sitting in prison due to the action of corrupt officials. He was facing the possibility of execution for preaching the Gospel. If ever there was a time when you wouldn’t be content, it was then. But Paul managed to write these verses: Philippians 4:11b-13 “…for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do all this through him who gives me strength.”
  • Often, we view life, the world, and our situation as a dichotomy – two opposing or mutually exclusive aspects of life, such as good and evil. Often, though, we are called to hold the differing aspects of our life in tension. I believe this worldview may significantly enhance our ability to remain content in all circumstances.

What would it look like for me to be content whilst waiting?

  • Be fully present in the now. Give up wishing for the future or for the present to be no more. Live your life, don’t put it on hold. Enjoy the present. Laugh. Find joy and gratitude in the now.
  • Be faithful to that which God has called you. Your calling hasn’t changed. Your frustration may have though. Remain faithful to that which God has called you to do.
  • Be careful what questions you ask God. Instead of when or why me, choose to ask, “what now, Lord?” or “how Lord, do you want me to respond?”
  • Be focused on God and others.
  • Lean into God during this season. Listen to his still, quiet voice (usually not a shout).
  1. Waiting is a ‘surrendering’ season.

Surrendering your plans, your desires, your timing to God and His plans, His timing, His outcome.

  • How can you turn waiting into surrendering?
  • How can you use this time wisely and not waste the opportunities you currently have in this season?
  • How can you embrace the waiting and realise that waiting is part of God’s plan for you?
  • How can your attitude and behaviour change so that you realise God is using this season as part of His plan?
  • What does God want to do in you while you wait?
  • What do you still need to surrender completely?
  • Where in your inner depths does God still want to be allowed to transform and embrace you?
  • “Why” questions don’t seem to produce good fruit.
  1. This season is not just a waiting season. It is a growing and enlarging season.

Usually, we don’t choose the season of waiting. Usually, it is thrust upon us. We do have a choice, though, in how we wait, how we respond during this season.

We can lose out when we feel we are just treading water and waiting. We can waste this precious season and the benefits we can acquire from the pain and frustration of waiting.

We have an invitation to grow in this season, to develop.

  • What is your invitation for this season?
  • How is God wanting to redeem this time for others?
  • What does God want to bring about in your life so that you can laugh in the face of the future? (Proverbs 31:25)
  • How does God want to use this time to triumph over the devil? What is the bigger picture at play?
  • What if this season is purely learning to wait well? What if the sole goal of this season is learning to wait well? How does that change my view and help me embrace this season well? Waiting strengthens character. Isaiah 40:31 “but they who wait for the Lord shall renew their strength, they shall mount up with wings like eagles, they shall run and not be weary, they shall walk and not faint.”
  • Too often, our desire is to obtain the goal as soon as possible, but what if this waiting season is not about you, but about the proclamation of the Gospel through your waiting? If your waiting displays God and His attributes in a whole new dimension, how does that change your attitude, behaviour, and responsibility?
  • Waiting is a spiritual discipline. Resisting the waiting season can be resisting the very thing that is shaping you into the image of Christ.

How can I wait well during the season of waiting?

  • Keep your eyes on God.
  • Fast social media.
  • Allow God’s voice to be louder and have pre-eminence over other people’s voices.
  • Praise God in the big and small.
  • Make a daily choice to keep your faith in God. Keep turning up. Keep showing up and saying, ‘God, I’m here.’ I’ll continue to read your Word until I hear from you.
  • Get into the Word and look for a promise from God. Hold on to that promise and make it a declaration.
  • Look at what you are saying every day. Are you negating the promise by how you speak? Our words do not return empty. Isaiah 55:11
  • Stay fully present in your current situation.
  • Remain faithful.
  • Learn to rest.
  • Choose to trust God and look at how you can grow.
  • Pray for others you meet who are also navigating this season.
  • Daily relinquish control.
  • Re-examine expectations. Unmet expectations can be painful, so it may be time to consider lowering or adjusting your expectations.
  • Look to what new song God is putting in your mouth. Psalm 40:1-3
  • Celebrate the ordinary.
  • Create memory stones from how God has come through in the past. Reflect on the times when God has worked miraculously in your life so far. Joshua 4
  • Let the words from 1 Samuel 7:12b be true for us as we wait well. “Thus far, the Lord has helped us.” Or The Message version – “This marked the place where God helped us” – memory stones!!
  • Jeremiah 29:13 “You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart.”
  • And remember, just like seasons come and go physically, they do so spiritually as well.  It won’t always be winter.

A summary of what we’ve looked at today:

How can you steward this waiting season for your best outcome?

  1. Determine which season you are in.
  2. How can you remain content whilst waiting? How can you ‘wait’ well?
  3. Waiting is a ‘surrendering’ season.
  4. This season is not just a waiting season. It is a growing and enlarging season.
  5. We also looked at – How we can wait well during the season of waiting?

 

Prophetic activation:

Turn your heart and thoughts to Father God and ask Him:

  • “God, can You please bring a situation to mind that I perhaps have looked at the wrong or incorrect way?”
  • “God, what are Your thoughts on that situation?”
  • “God, what would You love me to do about that situation?”

 

Time Stamps:

[0:40] – Gary & Jane share how they have heard God this week.

[2:52] – Introduction to the winter season.

[8:23] – How we view the wilderness is important – common lies and the truth.

[11:56] – How we can view the waiting season for the best outcome.

[14:00] – How to remain content whilst waiting ie how to wait well.

[17:02] – Waiting is a ‘surrendering’ season.

[17:43] – The waiting season is also a growing and an enlarging season.

[20:17] – How I can wait well during this season.

[24:26] – Summary

[25:14] – Prophetic activation.

[26:21] – Gary & Jane both share a prophetic word for a listener.

[27:55] – Gary prays for you.

 

Resources / Links Mentioned:

 

Bible Verses Mentioned:

  • Psalm 1:2-3 “Blessed is the one… but whose delight is in the law of the Lord, and who meditates on his law day and night. That person is like a tree planted by streams of water, which yields its fruit in season and whose leaf does not wither—whatever they do prospers.”
  • Ezekiel 37 – dry bones
  • Isaiah 35:1 “The desert and the parched land will be glad; the wilderness will rejoice and blossom.”
  • 1 Samuel 16 – David anointed as future king.
  • Philippians 4:11b-13 “…for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do all this through him who gives me strength.”
  • Proverbs 31:25 “She is clothed with strength and dignity; she can laugh at the days to come.”
  • Isaiah 40:31 “But they who wait for the Lord shall renew their strength, they shall mount up with wings like eagles, they shall run and not be weary, they shall walk and not faint.”
  • Isaiah 55:11 “So shall My word be that goes forth from My mouth; It shall not return to Me void, But it shall accomplish what I please, and it shall prosper in the thing for which I sent it.”
  • Psalm 40:1-3 “I waited patiently for the Lord; he inclined to me and heard my cry. He drew me up from the desolate pit, out of the miry bog, and set my feet upon a rock, making my steps secure. He put a new song in my mouth, a song of praise to our God. Many will see and fear and put their trust in the Lord.” The Passion Translation puts verse 3 as “A new song for a new day rises up in me every time I think about how he breaks through for me! Ecstatic praise pours out of my mouth until everyone hears how God has set me free. Many will see his miracles; they’ll stand in awe of God and fall in love with him!”
  • Joshua 4 – memory stones
  • 1 Samuel 7:12b “Thus far, the Lord has helped us.” “This marked the place where God helped us.”
  • Jeremiah 29:13 “You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart.”
  • Philippians 4:11b “…for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances.”
  • Lamentations 3:24-25 “I say to myself, “The Lord is my portion; therefore I will wait for him. The Lord is good to those whose hope is in him, to the one who seeks him.”
  • Romans 5:3-4 “More than that, we rejoice in our sufferings, knowing that suffering produces endurance, and endurance produces character, and character produces hope…”
  • Galatians 6:9 “Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.”
  • Psalm 33:20 “We wait in hope for the Lord; he is our help and our shield.”
  • Psalm 130:5 “I wait for the Lord, my whole being waits, and in his word, I put my hope.”
  • Deuteronomy 31:8 “The Lord himself goes before you and will be with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged.”
  • Jeremiah 32:27 “Then the word of the Lord came to Jeremiah: “I am the Lord, the God of all mankind. Is anything too hard for me?”
  • Psalm 94:19 “When the cares of my heart are many, thy consolations cheer my soul.” Or in The Passion Translation “Whenever my busy thoughts were out of control, the soothing comfort of your presence calmed me down and overwhelmed me with delight.”

 

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Episode 88: Hearing God in various seasons of life

Episode 88: Hearing God in various seasons of life

Aug 17, 2025 | 0 comments

Episode Description:

In life, we experience not only the weather seasons but also metaphorical seasons, such as dry and barren seasons, the waiting season, the busy season, a season of celebration, or a season of spiritual warfare, among others. No season is perfect. Each season has its unique problems. The way we handle one season profoundly impacts how we experience the seasons that follow. Seasons are not a punishment from God. Instead, they are a time of preparation and growth. Our attitude is so crucial in the season we are currently in. There are certain things we have no control over, but by doing the right thing in our current season and maintaining the correct attitude towards it, we can prepare for the next season and thrive, regardless of which season we find ourselves in. Join us as we explore how to hear God in various seasons of life.

Episode Notes:

Introduction to seasons:

  • I wonder how often we’ve grumbled throughout our lives about the current season we’re in. “I can’t wait for this season to end.”
  • It can be especially prevalent when raising kids “Once they sleep through the night, once they’re out of nappies, once…”
  • It can happen, especially when it is either a particularly busy season and we feel pulled in too many directions, or during a season of dryness and feeling that God is far away.
  • If it is a particularly challenging season, it can be easy to take our eyes off God and onto our circumstances. I’m guilty of that.
  • Unfortunately, or fortunately, every season has its own set of challenges, as well as great times and joy. The key is not found in changing seasons but in whom we fix our eyes on. Hebrews 12:2 The Message version says, Keep your eyes on Jesus.

Richard Blackaby: The Seasons of God: How the Shifting Patterns of Your Life Reveal His Purposes for You – it’s a book about timing and being free to enjoy which season you’re in. Blackaby summarises his observations about timing in a chapter entitled “Ten Laws of the Seasons of Life.” These laws are:

  1. Each of us experiences repeated cycles in life that are profoundly mirrored in the seasons we see in nature.
  2. These seasons are more than simply a metaphor for aging.
  3. Each season is unique and adds important dimensions to life.
  4. Our seasons follow a set order.
  5. Our seasons vary in length and intensity—and in what they require from us.
  6. The way we handle one season profoundly impacts how we experience the seasons that follow.
  7. We can—and often do—fail to recognize and understand our particular season.
  8. Understanding our seasons of life requires a vital, open, trusting relationship with God.
  9. We experience different seasons in different aspects of our lives.
  10. We are meant to thrive in every season.

The last point is critical—thriving is God’s will for our lives, and his guidance is the key to making the most of each season

Natural seasons and their unique characteristics:

Cooperating with natural seasons was central to the life of ancient Israel. Natural seasons enable the growth of natural harvests. Spiritual seasons, on the other hand, enable growth and maturity in individuals, churches and nations. There are four natural seasons, each with its unique characteristics and responses.

As an Australian and having grown up on a farm, I view the seasons as:

  • Spring – planting, promise, possibilities and potential. Lots of growth and busyness.
  • Summer – maturation and harvest. Hard work but fun. Stocking up for winter.
  • Autumn/fall – a bit of harvest but a lot of dying off, winding down and getting ready for the winter. Enjoying the fruits of summer’s labour.
  • Winter – cold, hard time of ploughing, trudging through without seeing any reward for your effort, staying the course despite. Transitions and endings.
  • Problems arise when we are impatient for the next season or refuse to let go of the previous one. Getting stuck in a particularly happy season or a particularly sad season seems to be a pattern repeated in many unhappy lives.
  • Each season impacts our identity, relationships, roles, and faith.

First Principle: God created seasons.

  • Seasons are purposeful. God is accomplishing His divine purposes, even though we may not understand them. Every season in our lives has a purpose.
  • Genesis 8:22 “As long as the earth endures, seedtime and harvest, cold and heat, summer and winter, day and night will never cease.”
  • Ecclesiastes 3:11 “God has made everything beautiful in His time and for everything there is a season.”
  • Ecclesiastes 3:1-8 “There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens: a time to be born and a time to die, a time to plant and a time to uproot, a time to kill and a time to heal, a time to tear down and a time to build, a time to weep and a time to laugh, a time to mourn and a time to dance, a time to scatter stones and a time to gather them, a time to embrace and a time to refrain from embracing,a time to search and a time to give up, a time to keep and a time to throw away, a time to tear and a time to mend, a time to be silent and a time to speak, a time to love and a time to hate,  a time for war and a time for peace.”
  • Solomon was speaking on the importance of proper timing. God loves order.  We see it in how the sun rises and the moon fades.  We see it in how our physical seasons change.
  • He has established a time and place for every event that occurs on this earth.  Our problem is that sometimes, we try to rush it.
  • Each season of your life is important and has been ordained by God.  Each one He has given a purpose as He moulds and guides you into the woman or man that He has called you to be.
  • Seasons are not permanent, and until God intervenes, the cycle will continue to repeat. The season in which you now find yourself will soon pass. It will not last forever.
  • Understanding that our seasons are passing, providential, and purposeful is valuable; however what we do in those seasons is of even greater importance.

Second Principle: Fix your eyes on Jesus and embrace your current season

  • God has a purpose for every season we go through.
  • No matter which season you are in, God is using this time to develop you into the person he has called you to be. Listen to His voice. Look for the lessons he wants to teach you.
  • Sometimes, seasons don’t correlate with the natural seasons, but rather with other descriptions.
    • A dry or barren season when God appears quiet and you don’t seem to be able to hear His voice or sense His presence. God may seem distant. This is an invitation to press in close despite our feelings. (Like the train – engine is fact, faith and feelings are the carriages.) Continue reading the Bible. God hasn’t left you. He hasn’t moved away. It may be that you’re walking through a difficult time, in a rut, or maybe sin or disobedience has entered.
    • The Waiting season. Psalm 37:7 “Be still in the presence of the Lord and wait patiently for Him.” Easier said than done. Whether waiting for a baby, a life partner, etc. Abraham and Sarah waited years for a baby. It is interesting to note that when Abraham finally cut his nephew Lot loose, Sarah immediately became pregnant. Another example from the Bible was Joseph – waiting for the promise. Sold into slavery. Falsely accused. Imprisoned. What he went through in the meantime. Learning to wait well.
    • The busy season. Often with little kids or with hectic work schedule. Feeling like you don’t have enough time. Important to fix our eyes on Jesus
    • A season of spiritual warfare – feeling constantly attacked spiritually. Perhaps read Job. In the 1st world, we often don’t understand persecution and the Christian life and what we are called to as a Christian. Ephesians 6:10-12 “Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power.Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes.  For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms.“
    • A season of ease and everything seemingly going well. Celebrate.
  • God is with you in each and every season. Practice gratitude in every season.
  • Be faithful to God in every season. Draw close to Him. Get stuck into reading the Bible. Look for ways to get His Word inside you – audio Bible etc.
  • Don’t shortchange yourself by wishing your current season to end. We can want our circumstances to change and grumble about our current situation.
  • The Israelites wandered in the wilderness for 40 years because they failed to learn the lessons God had for them in trust and obedience.
  • Galatians 6:9 “Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.“
  • No season is perfect. Each has its unique problems. The way we handle one season profoundly impacts how we experience the seasons that follow.
  • Ask God:
    • What lessons are you teaching me?
    • What actions do I need to be taking?
    • What should be my plan moving forward?
  • Waiting in your current season can be challenging, and while you feel unsure as to whether that thing will ever happen, it’s good to remember that these seasons are not God’s punishment. Instead, they are a time of preparation and growth.
  • Isaiah 40:31: “those who wait for the Lord shall renew their strength.”
  • Psalm 27:14 “Wait for the Lord; be strong and let your heart take courage; wait for the lord!”
  • I love how this verse encourages you to view waiting as an opportunity to draw closer to God and allow Him to renew your strength.

Third Principle: Learn from your current season

  • Know your season and the provision it brings.
  • God is prophetic. He is a forward-thinking God. Each season prepares us for the next one. Provision for present situations is given in previous seasons.
  • This was true of Israel as they possessed the Promised Land.
  • You can’t manipulate times and seasons. They are God’s domain. You can merely discern the season and live in it. Some seasons are short. Some seasons are long. When you are anxious for a God appointed season to shift, you stop living fully in that season. There are treasures to discover in the season that you are in.
  • Make a decision to live in that season.

How to determine your spiritual season with God, and does it really matter?

There are seasons in the physical realm, and there are seasons in the spiritual realm, but the two will not always align.  Does it really matter?

I think it’s more crucial to be where God wants you to be and leaning in close to Him and hearing God where you’re at.

Summary:

  1. God created seasons.
  2. Fix your eyes on Jesus and embrace your current season
  3. Learn from your current season.

Prophetic activation:

Turn your heart and thoughts to Father God and ask Him:

  • “God, what would You love me to let go of in this season?”
  • “God, what would You love to give me in this season?”

Time Stamps:

[0:46] – Gary & Jane share how they have heard God this week.

[4:57] – Introduction to the seasons in our life.

[8:00] – Brief introduction of Richard Blackaby’s book “The Seasons of God”.

[10:32] – Natural seasons and their unique characteristics.

[14:23] – First principle: God created seasons.

[18:04] – Second Principle: Fix your eyes on Jesus and embrace your current season.

[25:47] – Third Principle: Learn from your current season.

[26:42] – How to determine your spiritual season with God.

[27:42] – Summary

[28:04] – Prophetic activation.

[28:59] – Gary & Jane both share a prophetic word for a listener.

[30:30] – Gary prays for you.

Resources / Links Mentioned:

Bible Verses Mentioned and also those about Seasons:

  • Hebrews 12:2 – Keep (fix) your eyes on Jesus.
  • Genesis 8:22 – As long as the earth endures, seedtime and harvest, cold and heat, summer and winter, day and night will never cease.
  • Ecclesiastes 3:1-8 – There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens: a time to be born and a time to die, a time to plant and a time to uproot, a time to kill and a time to heal, a time to tear down and a time to build, a time to weep and a time to laugh, a time to mourn and a time to dance, a time to scatter stones and a time to gather them, a time to embrace and a time to refrain from embracing,a time to search and a time to give up, a time to keep and a time to throw away, a time to tear and a time to mend, a time to be silent and a time to speak, a time to love and a time to hate,  a time for war and a time for peace.
  • Ecclesiastes 3:11 – God has made everything beautiful in His time and for everything there is a season.
  • Psalm 37:7 – Be still in the presence of the Lord and wait patiently for Him.
  • Ephesians 6:10-12 – Finally, be strong in the Lord and in His mighty power. Put on the full armour of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes. For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms.
  • Galatians 6:9 – Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.
  • Isaiah 40:31 – Those who wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength.
  • Psalm 27:14 – Wait for the Lord; be strong and let your heart take courage; wait for the Lord!
  • Genesis 1:14 – And God said, ‘Let there be lights in the vault of the sky to separate the day from the night, and let them serve as signs to mark sacred times, and days and years.
  • Psalm 74:17 – It was you who set all the boundaries of the earth; you made both summer and winter.
  • Zechariah 10:1 – Ask the Lord for rain in the springtime; it is the Lord who sends the thunderstorms. He gives showers of rain to all people, and plants of the field to everyone.
  • Matthew 24:32 – Now learn this lesson from the fig tree: As soon as its twigs get tender and its leaves come out, you know that summer is near.
  • Psalm 104:19 – He made the moon to mark the seasons, and the sun knows when to go down.
  • Jeremiah 8:7 – Even the stork in the sky knows her appointed seasons, and the dove, the swift and the thrush observe the time of their migration. But my people do not know the requirements of the Lord.
  • Acts 14:17 – Yet he has not left himself without testimony: He has shown kindness by giving you rain from heaven and crops in their seasons; he provides you with plenty of food and fills your hearts with joy.
  • James 5:7 – Be patient, then, brothers and sisters, until the Lord’s coming. See how the farmer waits for the land to yield its valuable crop, patiently waiting for the autumn and spring rains.
  • Song of Solomon 2:11-12 – See! The winter is past; the rains are over and gone. Flowers appear on the earth; the season of singing has come, the cooing of doves is heard in our land.
  • Daniel 2:21 – He changes times and seasons; he deposes kings and raises up others. He gives wisdom to the wise and knowledge to the discerning.
  • Joel 2:23 – Be glad, people of Zion, rejoice in the Lord your God, for he has given you the autumn rains because he is faithful. He sends you abundant showers, both autumn and spring rains, as before.
  • Luke 21:30 – When they sprout leaves, you can see for yourselves and know that summer is near.
  • Psalm 1:3 – That person is like a tree planted by streams of water, which yields its fruit in season and whose leaf does not wither—whatever they do prospers.

Connect with Gary & Jane:

Support the show:

  • Please share this podcast with someone who would value hearing from God.
  • Follow and leave a rating + review on your favourite podcast listening app.
  • If God is leading you to donate or support the show in any way, please visit https://buymeacoffee/garyandjanM Thank you so much.
Episode 87: Hearing God in Retirement

Episode 87: Hearing God in Retirement

Aug 10, 2025 | 0 comments

Episode Description:

The retirement years are not meant to be a never-ending holiday. Although the Bible doesn’t specifically address retirement, apart from Numbers 8, which instructs priests to leave the heavy lifting to younger men, it does refer to the aging process and the responsibilities and legacies we are to leave for our children and grandchildren. Join us as we explore hearing God regarding the retirement years and stewarding our time, thoughts, purpose, discipleship, and resources.

Episode Notes:

Introduction to the retirement years

  • Often preceding this are the ’empty-nester’ years once your kids have left home. This time is a beautiful invitation for new patterns and routines.
  • The Bible does not specifically address retirement as a biblical mandate. It does say in Numbers 8:23-26 that the Levitical priests, at the age of 50 (in the Jubilee year), are to retire from regular service but still assist their brothers. Their strength was waning and moving heavy furniture and demanding roles in the Tabernacle were too much for them, but they still had a role.
  • Retirement is not a never-ending vacation/holiday.
  • Instead, retirement is a fantastic opportunity to revisit your purpose in life and re-examine your use of time as you tend to have a whole lot of extra time, thought life, etc. In other words, how you manage your rest. Almost like an invitation for some to ‘turn the page’. To embrace this new season and look for growth opportunities.
  • Not only what you will do to serve and give back, but almost more importantly, why.
  • It can also be a time when you are juggling helping with grandchildren, plus caring for elderly parents.

First Principle: Getting or remaining ‘right with God’

  • Your relationship with God has to be your top priority.
  • Matthew 6:33 “Seek first His Kingdom and His righteousness”
  • Mark 12:30-31 “Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength.The second is this: ‘Love your neighbour as yourself. There is no commandment greater than these.”
  • Your relationships, your identity and purpose. New ways of serving God.
  • Reassess priorities.
  • Spiritual practices.
  • Are you ready to meet your maker/creator? Are you ready to leave Earth with no regrets? Make peace with your life and with God.
  • Perhaps you would like to take some time to ask God to reveal His thoughts on various aspects of your life?

Second Principle: Leaving a legacy

  • Psalm 71:17-18 “Since my youth, God, you have taught me, and to this day I declare your marvellous deeds. Even when I am old and grey, do not forsake me, my God, till I declare your power to the next generation, your mighty acts to all who are to come.” Other translations say, “My descendants need to know about You”.
  • Who and how will you invest in others by mentoring and discipling?
  • As an elder, you usually have incredible wisdom and can be a blessing to all.
  • Proverbs 13:22 “A good person leaves an inheritance for their children’s children.”
  • Ask God, “Lord, what legacy do You want me to leave for my children and my children’s children?”

Third Principle: Stewardship of what God has entrusted to you for the well-being of others

  • Your time, money, resources, energy, thought life, and wisdom.
  • How will you further God’s work in the time you have left?
  • Psalm 92: 12-15 The righteous will flourish like a palm tree, they will grow like a cedar of Lebanon; planted in the house of the Lord, they will flourish in the courts of our God. They will still bear fruit in old age, they will stay fresh and green, proclaiming, “The Lordis upright; he is my Rock, and there is no wickedness in him.”
  • Your work has been your service and contribution to the world. But it is really you who are the gift to the world.
  • What are you retiring ‘from’ or retiring ‘to’?

Summary:

  1. Getting or remaining ‘right with God’.
  2. Leaving a legacy.
  3. Stewardship of what God has entrusted to you.

Prophetic activation:

Turn your heart and thoughts to Father God and ask Him:

  • “God, what would You write on my tombstone?”

Time Stamps:

[0:56] – Gary & Jane share how they have heard God this week.

[4:31] – Introduction to the retirement years.

[7:15] – First principle: Getting or remaining ‘right with God’.

[9:39] – Second Principle: Leaving a legacy.

[11:33] – Third Principle: Stewardship of what God has entrusted to you for the well-being of others.

[15:20] – Summary

[15:48] – Prophetic activation.

[16:37] – Gary & Jane both share a prophetic word for a listener.

[18:26] – Gary prays for you.

Resources / Links Mentioned:

Bible Verses Mentioned:

  • Numbers 8:23-26
  • Matthew 6:33
  • Mark 12:30-31
  • Psalm 71:17-18
  • Proverbs 13:22
  • Psalm 92:12-15
  • Numbers 13

Connect with Gary & Jane:

Support the show:

  • Please share this podcast with someone who would value hearing from God.
  • Follow and leave a rating + review on your favourite podcast listening app.
  • If God is leading you to donate or support the show in any way, please visit https://buymeacoffee/garyandjanM Thank you so much.
Episode 86: Hearing God as a Family

Episode 86: Hearing God as a Family

Aug 3, 2025 | 0 comments

Episode Description:

Fun, laughter, chaos, playing together, reading the Bible together, singing and worshipping God, practising listening to God, and sharing our dreams can all describe how we experience God as a family. Join us in this episode as we explore strategies for hearing God as a family and in community with others.

Episode Notes:

We realise not everyone who listens to this podcast is married.

  • For those who are single, can I encourage you to find someone or a community to have as a safeguard when hearing God. Someone, or a couple of people, who you believe are wise and discerning, who you can bounce stuff off, especially in relation to hearing God and decision making. Someone who has your back. Someone who will pray for you and with you.
  • For young married couples, this is a fantastic time to learn to hear God both individually and together. To assess who you will listen to for wise, trusted advice. To get stuck into reading the Bible and glean principles for your future together. To pray together. To wait on God together and enjoy sharing that which you receive from God.
  • For those who are empty nesters, you’re at a new stage in life and usually have more time and freedom to explore possibilities while still sowing into your kids and possibly grandkids. You play a crucial role in this.
  • For those with young kids, or even older kids, who are juggling work, family, chaos, intense ups and downs, often with limited free time, take a breath. There is hope. You are doing a great job. Hang in there.

First Principle: Partnership is important.

  • Doing life with others helps, and the same goes for hearing God. Cultivate trusted people you can share with as you hear from God.
  • For the marrieds, practice together. Pray together and in your prayer time, allow a few minutes of silence to practice waiting on God and hearing Him.
  • Before praying about a particular topic, ask God what He wants you to pray.

Second Principle: Model hearing God

  • With your kids, talk about how you’ve heard God. What it was like, eg hear, feel, sense, see.
  • Make it a normal part of life to share the dreams you had during the night.
  • Buy your kids a dream journal and write/draw in it.
  • We used to have a ‘soaking’ time in the morning. Put on your favourite music and ask God a question. It is easier (as I mentioned in episode 82 on practical tips for hearing God) to go from the object to the abstract. Especially with kids. Ask God a specific question. Episodes 10 and 84 were on helping our kids hear from God.
  • With our financial giving, we would ask God how much we should give to various missionaries or mission projects.
  • Expect to hear God.
  • Read the Bible together.
  • Don’t feel you have to add another thing to your life. Use the time in the car, over meals, etc.
  • Help your kids see themselves as God sees them. Help them in their relationship with God and to grow their identity and intimacy with God.

Third Principle: Have fun

  • Hearing God is a relationship. It’s not meant to be hard work. There is a freedom and an ease, an excitement. Laugh with God. Inject some humour. Kids especially love having a laugh with God and telling jokes with God.
  • Play games as you practice hearing God.
  • Use opportunities like birthdays and Christmas to practice hearing God. For example, a Christmas tree decoration is a prophetic symbol.

Summary:

  1. Partnership is important.
  2. Model hearing God.
  3. Have fun.

Prophetic activation:

Turn your heart and thoughts to Father God:

  • Try to imagine Him standing next to you.
  • Imagine you are juggling a number of balls.
  • On each ball is written one of your responsibilities/tasks.
  • Ask God if there are any balls He would like you to give to Him or maybe even drop.
  • Feel free to ask God more questions about that.

Time Stamps:

[0:37] – Gary & Jane share how they have heard God this week.

[3:39] – For those single, newly married, or empty nesters.

[6:27] – First principle: Partnership is important.

[6:55] – Second Principle: Model hearing God.

[11:25] – Third Principle: Have fun.

[12:29] – Summary

[12:52] – Prophetic activation.

[14:10] – Gary & Jane both share a prophetic word for a listener.

[16:06] – Gary prays for you.

Resources / Links Mentioned:

Bible Verses Mentioned:

Connect with Gary & Jane:

Support the show:

  • Please share this podcast with someone who would value hearing from God.
  • Follow and leave a rating + review on your favourite podcast listening app.
  • If God is leading you to donate or support the show in any way, please visit https://buymeacoffee/garyandjanM Thank you so much.
Episode 85: Young Adults hearing God

Episode 85: Young Adults hearing God

Jul 27, 2025 | 0 comments

Episode Description:

The young adult years are full of making decisions that can significantly impact our future. It is a time when our identity needs to be grounded in believing who God says we are and in intimacy with Him. This helps us hear God. Join us as we explore hearing God in relation to the young adult years and the decisions they face.

Episode Notes:

The term ‘teenagers’ didn’t exist before the 1900s. It was coined around 1911 but came into use in the early to mid-1900s. The years at high school were then increased by two years as well (years 6-7 were spread out over two more years to keep children at school longer). This was an effort to keep young children out of factories for as long as possible.

The teenage years are typically a time when identity is questioned and can be a period of abundant free time and limited responsibility.

Our kids read the book “Do Hard Things: A Teenage Rebellion Against Low Expectations” by Alex and Brett Harris.

More specifically, we will be discussing the late teenage years and young adult years today, as these are the periods when many of life’s most significant decisions are made. What do I do with my life? What job do I do? Do I go to university? Who do I marry? etc

Earlier this year, in episode 71, we explored the question, “Will God tell me what to do with my life?” And in Episode 73, “Will God tell me who I should marry?”

First Principle: Put God first

  • Matthew 6:33 “Seek first the Kingdom of God and His righteousness” and the rest will fall into place.
  • Jeremiah 33:3 “Call to me and I will answer you. I’ll tell you marvellous and wondrous things that you could never figure out on your own.
  • Jeremiah 29:11 & 13 “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future….You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart.”
  • Put God first in all areas, especially finances. Our hearts tend to follow where our finances go. But also, how you spend your time, who you date, what work you do?
  • Be quick to obey God. If you drag your feet, often the devil can get in there and impact your response.

Second Principle: Sort out your identity

  • Chase after who God says you are.
  • Keep your identity separate from what you do.
  • Don’t let your friends, your past, or the media determine who you are. Immerse yourself in who God says you are. Ask God to show and tell you how He sees you.
  • I think a critical area is getting healing. Get prayer ministry. Be in a healthy place. Don’t let any mistakes in your past hold you back or bring you shame. As you look towards a life partner, both get healing and be in the best place possible moving forward.
  • Character is so important.

Third Principle: Ask God His plans for you and the decisions you are facing.

  • In Episode 73 on who you should marry, we emphasised the Scriptural principle from 2 Corinthians 6:14 “Do not be yoked together with unbelievers” or as The Message version puts it: “Don’t become partners with those who reject God. How can you make a partnership out of right and wrong? That’s not partnership; that’s war. Is light best friends with dark? Does Christ go strolling with the Devil? Do trust and mistrust hold hands?”
  • In major decisions,
    • Seek advice from wise, trusted people.
    • Go after that inner ‘peace’ i.e. do you have peace about the decision?
    • Look for confirmation from God. Don’t go off and do something big on a one-off ‘word’ from God. Seek confirmation.
    • Is there a Biblical precedent? Get stuck into reading the Bible so you know it. If you are finding time an issue, listen to the audio Bible. The Gospel of Mark takes roughly 2 hours to read through. Make it a priority.
    • Have a mentor.
    • What’s the likely or unlikely fallout?
    • If in a dating relationship, practice learning to hear God together as a couple.

Summary:

  1. Put God first.
  2. Sort out your identity.
  3. Ask God His plans for you and the decisions you are facing.

Prophetic activation:

I encourage you to take some time this week to do something fun and creative with God. Whether it’s painting, cooking, using playdough, dancing, singing, or creating something with God, etc. As you do this, chat with God about life and ask God if He has a special word or name for you, what He loves calling you, and how He sees you. Remember to leave time for God to answer you. Embark on a journey of enjoying time with God.

Time Stamps:

[0:48] – Gary & Jane share how they have heard God this week.

[7:02] – Introduction to teenage and young adult years.

[9:18] – First principle: Put God first.

[12:08] – Second Principle: Sort out your identity.

[14:05] – Third Principle: Ask God His plans for you and the decisions you’re facing.

[17:48] – Summary

[18:14] – Prophetic activation.

[19:39] – Gary & Jane both share a prophetic word for a listener.

[22:27] – Gary prays for you.

Resources / Links Mentioned:

Bible Verses Mentioned:

  • Matthew 6:33
  • Jeremiah 33:3
  • Jeremiah 29:11-13
  • 2 Corinthians 6:14

Connect with Gary & Jane:

Support the show:

  • Please share this podcast with someone who would value hearing from God.
  • Follow and leave a rating + review on your favourite podcast listening app.
  • If God is leading you to donate or support the show in any way, please visit https://buymeacoffee/garyandjanM Thank you so much.
Episode 84: Children hearing God

Episode 84: Children hearing God

Jul 20, 2025 | 0 comments

Episode Description:

Children have an incredible openness and ability to hear God. As parents, we can either help or hinder them in hearing God. Join us as we share principles and stories from when our children were growing up, emphasising that encouraging intimacy and a relationship with Father God, the Holy Spirit, and Jesus are vital in helping our children hear God.

Episode Notes:

In Season 1, episode 10, we did an episode on helping kids hear from God. Back then, we talked about:

  • There is no junior Holy Spirit. Matthew 18:3 And Jesus said: “Truly I tell you, unless you change and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven.“
  • Biblical principle of Samuel in 1 Samuel 3 hearing God’s voice.
  • Actively build their faith. During conversation talk about hearing God. Protect your child’s innocence by carefully selecting what they are exposed to, such as TV programs or movies. We also covered dreams and nightmares.
  • Make it fun to hear God. Games, creative expressions like LEGO, cooking, decorating cakes, painting, dancing, and singing etc.

First Principle: Children can hear God, perhaps more than we realise.

  • Visions – babies can see angels.
  • Discernment – often they have incredible discernment regarding safe and unsafe people. As parents, we may want our children to kiss and hug family members or friends when they don’t want to. Never force them.
  • Trust what your child tells you.
  • Dreams
  • Nightmares – it’s important how we respond. Never say ‘there’s nothing there’.
  • We can shut down their imagination, but our imagination is important in hearing God. Not that we make things up, but God speaks and shows us things.
  • As we grow older, we have more junk, so we tend to question – “was that God or was that myself?” We tend to analyse hearing God.

Second Principle: Protect your child’s ability to hear God

  • What they watch on TV, movies, etc. Don’t let movie producers influence their image of the supernatural. Let God show them what He is doing.
  • Always bring it back to Father God, Holy Spirit and Jesus. Where are they in relation to your child, and what are they doing?
  • Don’t open the door to fear with them. Important to get our junk healed so we don’t instil fear in them. Also, deal with generational iniquity.

Third Principle: Help your child see themselves as God sees them

  • Begins with their name
  • Identity – based in being a child of God, not in what they do.
  • How we treat them, what we say, our frustrations, ‘labels’, etc
  • Get stuck into reading the Bible with them, praying, worshipping God, etc
  • Practice hearing God in everyday life. What do we do about Christmas Day? How much money to give to this project? What does God want to say to Nanny? Let’s ask God if Daddy was an animal, which one would he be and why?
  • Spirit-filled church – a spiritually rich place. As parents, you are responsible spiritually for your children – the church complements what you do and can help significantly in teaching them.

Summary:

  1. Children can hear God, perhaps more than we realise.
  2. Protect your child’s ability to hear God.
  3. Help your child see themselves as God sees them.

Prophetic activation:

Turn your heart and thoughts to Father God and ask Him:

  • “God, what children’s game would You love to play with me?”
  • “What is it about that game that is so special?”

Time Stamps:

[0:39] – Gary & Jane share how they have heard God this week.

[3:02] – Introduction to children hearing God.

[5:35] – First principle: Children can hear God, perhaps more than we realise.

[14:45] – Second Principle: Protect your child’s ability to hear God.

[16:10] – Third Principle: Help your child see themselves as God sees them.

[21:06] – Summary

[21:35] – Prophetic activation.

[22:36] – Gary & Jane both share a prophetic word for a listener.

[23:48] – Gary prays for you.

Resources / Links Mentioned:

Bible Verses Mentioned:

  • Matthew 18:3
  • 1 Samuel 3

Connect with Gary & Jane:

Support the show:

  • Please share this podcast with someone who would value hearing from God.
  • Follow and leave a rating + review on your favourite podcast listening app.
  • If God is leading you to donate or support the show in any way, please visit https://buymeacoffee/garyandjanM Thank you so much.
Episode 83: Hearing God in the Womb

Episode 83: Hearing God in the Womb

Jul 13, 2025 | 0 comments

Episode Description:

Since a baby’s spirit is present at conception, they can hear God whilst in the womb. The various physical stages of growth and development in the womb can also correlate with feelings and patterns in our lives after birth. This episode explores several key developmental periods during the baby’s time in the womb and how various experiences during these stages of pregnancy can impact the baby.

Episode Notes:

  • Today, we are launching a 5-week series on hearing God through various stages of life. We realise this is very general and not everyone gets married, etc., but it is a rough outline.
  • Today, we are exploring the topic of when a baby is in the womb. Next week, we will focus on children hearing God, followed by Young Adults the following week, families after that, and finally, empty nesters or the retirement stage, where we will also explore hearing God.
  • I don’t have any hard research facts other than what I have observed with many babies and in numerous prayer ministry sessions I have conducted with people.
  • Sandra Sellmer-Kersten, who was previously with Elijah House Ministries and has now formed the House of Nacham Ministries in New Zealand, has extensive experience in this area. Part of what we discuss today is based on her observations as well.
  • Arthur Burk from Sapphire Leadership Group has also done some amazing research in this area and has some fantastic resources for women who are pregnant.

Baby Blessings: Joy USD $12 x2 CDs

Baby Blessings: Peace USD $12 x2 CDs

Ministering to babies in the womb – download to nurture the baby’s spirit while their body is being formed. X11 CDs USD $55 (Contains baby blessings CDs)

First Principle: The baby’s spirit is present at conception.

  • Jeremiah 1:5 “Before I formed you in the womb, I knew you. Before you were born, I set you apart.”
  • The Message version says, “Before I shaped you in the womb, I knew all about you. Before you saw the light of day, I had holy plans for you.”
  • The Passion Translation says, “Before I shaped you in the womb, I knew you intimately. I had divine plans for you before I gave you life, and I set you apart and chose you to be mine.”
  • The baby’s soul doesn’t start functioning until around the time of birth. God designed the spirit to lead the soul and have a 9-month start.
  • The womb is a great place to start nurturing and growing their spirit.
  • They can hear you.

Second Principle: Bless the baby and their spirit.

  • Legitimacy and identity.
  • Welcomed and wanted.
  • Stepping into their destiny.
  • God created them and has a plan for them.

Third Principle: God can heal and minister during the development of the baby in the womb.

  • Infertility – disbelief and heartache.
  • Previous death in the womb, eg miscarriage or abortion. Pray to cleanse the spirit of death from the womb and to bring life and light to the womb.
  • Our spirit at conception – whether normal, rape, fear or anger present, unwanted, violence, rejection, shame, illegitimacy, unsafe environment, begins to feel welcome or fearful, even lust if a product of rape etc. Therefore, it is important to bless our baby with being welcomed, loved, fitting in, and being named.
  • IVF – if you were implanted as an IVF baby and you struggle with feeling alone, abandoned, unsettled, everything appears clinical, something’s not quite right – it is worth receiving prayer for.
  • People who struggle with boundaries or never feel like they ‘fit in’ or feel like they ‘don’t belong’, shrinking back and wanting to be invisible, can often be traced back to the implantation of the foetus in the womb. This is an important time for bonding and attachment, as well as the development of healthy boundaries, resilience, and self-worth.
  • Throughout the time in the womb, if there was a lot of chaos, fear, mum put out with being pregnant, emotionally distant, unwanted, etc, it can instil a lifetime of chaos and turmoil instead of safety. A fear of abandonment or avoiding intimacy. If a different gender than what the parents desire, etc. A lack of safety and nurture, and a shock to the mum during that time, can instil a lack of confidence that our needs will be met. If the mother wanted to hide the pregnancy for whatever reason, the baby picks up on it and can sense ‘I need to be invisible. I’m a burden.’ Whilst in the womb, it is a critical time of being seen and validated, welcomed and wanted, having a positive influence on your world, having a voice and being heard and being cherished and loved.
  • Twin in womb dies – deep wound of disconnect. It could happen to me, too. Start a habit of self-protection. An invisible friend can develop.
  • Preparation for birth: Overdue – I’ve found that when we speak to the baby’s spirit and welcome them, reassuring them that they are welcome and it is safe in the outside world, and they will be taken care of, the baby is usually delivered soon afterwards.
  • Transition / During the delivery – our first experience of readiness to change, crossing over or stepping into, or going through a change. If an emergency Caesarean – often as the baby grows up, they can desire control over situations, can often feel stuck, resist change, feel frustrated, helpless or hopeless.
  • Birth – welcoming to the big, wide world. Bringing delight. Human touch. Vulnerability. Being seen and heard for who we really are. Being received with joy. That skin-to-skin/heart-to-heart connection of feeling loved, connected, and warm. Having a name ready. You may have been rushed away due to an emergency, experienced a forceful or harsh touch, felt exposed or shamed, or been a disappointment, resulting in a disconnection. All play a role in our lives and what we believe, whether justified or not.
  • Correlation between breathing problems at birth and prophetic gifting.

Summary:

This podcast is about hearing God, and a baby’s spirit in the womb can hear God. They can also hear what you say as the parent. Never underestimate what God can and will do.

It’s never too late. If anything we have said today touches a chord in you, reach out and ask a trusted person or a local church where you can get prayer ministry.

  1. Your spirit is present at conception.
  2. Bless your baby and their spirit.
  3. God can heal and minister during the development of the baby in the womb.

Prophetic activation:

Turn your heart and thoughts to Father God and ask Him:

  • “God, what do You want to say to me about how You saw me in the womb?”
  • “God, when I was in the womb, what were Your plans for my life?”

Time Stamps:

[1:29] – Gary & Jane share how they have heard God this week.

[6:21] – Introduction to babies hearing God in the womb.

[9:31] – Prayer ministry explained.

[12:08] – First principle: The baby’s spirit is present at conception.

[14:08] – Second Principle: Bless the baby and their spirit.

[14:46] – Third Principle: God can heal and minister during the development of the baby in the womb.

[25:28] – Summary

[25:56] – Prophetic activation.

[26:56] – Gary & Jane both share a prophetic word for a listener.

[28:45] – Gary prays for you.

Resources / Links Mentioned:

Bible Verses Mentioned:

  • Jeremiah 1:5
  • Luke 1:41
  • Psalm 139:13-16

Connect with Gary & Jane:

Support the show:

  • Please share this podcast with someone who would value hearing from God.
  • Follow and leave a rating + review on your favourite podcast listening app.
  • If God is leading you to donate or support the show in any way, please visit https://buymeacoffee/garyandjanM Thank you so much.
Episode 82: Practical tips for hearing God

Episode 82: Practical tips for hearing God

Jul 6, 2025 | 0 comments

Episode Description:

This episode is packed with practical tips for growing in hearing God, as Gary and Jane share their experiences of beginning, going deeper, and expanding their understanding of how they hear, see, feel, and sense God’s presence.

Episode Notes:

Gary’s practical tips:

  1. Confession – clear and junk between you and God.
  2. Ask the Holy Spirit to speak to you and fill you with His Presence.
  3. Make a list.
  • First thought principle – the first thought that comes into your mind when you ask God.
  • Meditate on Scriptures and ask God what He wants to say to you through them.
  1. Record/journal what you sense God is saying to you.
  2. Be in a community.
  • Accountability.
  • Spur each other on.
  1. Ask God specific and further questions about what you see, hear, feel, and sense.

Jane’s practical tips:

  1. When asking God a question, start with an object, i.e., something seen or concrete, and then move to the unseen or abstract.
  • Asked God, “What do you want to say to me?” Heard nothing.
  • Asked God, “If I were a peanut, what would you say to me?”
  • Asked God, “In a picture of a running race, like a marathon, where am I?”
  • First thought principle.
  1. Practice.
  • Be creative.
  • Use snippets of time.
  • Take every opportunity, e.g. supermarket,
  1. Ask: Am I coasting or stretching myself?
  • When you use muscles, they become stronger. Often, we have to push ourselves to reach our full potential.
  • Grow in other areas of receiving from God.
  • God is constantly communicating with us. We are invited to be aware.
  • If you are struggling to hear, ask God a different question.
  1. Turn aside – if you see something unusual, take it as a sign from God.
  • No such thing as a coincidence. It is a God-incident.
  • The Talmud says that a dream not interpreted is like a letter not read.

Summary:

  • Practice.
  • Have fun.
  • It’s all about relationship and intimacy with God.

Prophetic activation:

I invite you today to try out a new spiritual sense; to practice smelling something that God would like to show you.

  • Take a few moments to find something with an unusual scent, such as a rose, pine needles, a candle, a spice container, a spray of perfume, or even the toilet freshener spray.
  • Take a big, deep smell and ask God to highlight something that He would love to tell you, show you, or demonstrate to you through that deep, long smell.
  • Explore with God the first thought that comes to your mind. Ask God more questions about that. Have fun with it and see what happens.

Time Stamps:

[0:39] – Gary & Jane share how they have heard God this week.

[3:43] – Topic introduced.

[4:01] – Gary’s practical tips.

[10:59] – Jane’s practical tips.

[18:45] – Summary

[19:43] – Prophetic activation.

[21:24] – Gary & Jane both share a prophetic word for a listener.

[23:22] – Gary prays for you.

Resources / Links Mentioned:

Bible Verses Mentioned:

  • Exodus 3

Connect with Gary & Jane:

Support the show:

  • Please share this podcast with someone who would value hearing from God.
  • Follow and leave a rating + review on your favourite podcast listening app.
  • If God is leading you to donate or support the show in any way, please visit https://buymeacoffee/garyandjanM Thank you so much.
Episode 81: Hearing God with Fiona Griffiths

Episode 81: Hearing God with Fiona Griffiths

Jun 29, 2025 | 0 comments

Episode Description:

In this powerfully inspiring and incredibly vulnerable interview, Fiona Griffiths shares her experience when she first remembers hearing God’s voice. Fiona is an incredible woman, passionate about seeing others set free and living life to the full. She helps people find their ‘voice’ and brings freedom and hope to many. In this episode, Fiona mentions her suicide attempts but shares extremely vulnerably the exciting thing is that it doesn’t end there; there is hope!! There is no mess too big for God to clean up. Fiona passionately emphasises that life’s adventure is all about intimacy with Jesus and the love of the Father. This is an episode not to miss.

Prophetic activation:

Fold a piece of paper in half. On one side, write down everything you think you are right now, all those voices, what other people tell you or what you believe, and anything a parent or teacher told you.

And then sitting, not for too long and not letting your brain go into overdrive, ask the Father, “How do You see me?” Write that down.

Don’t look at the other side again.

Write down what you feel/hear from the Father, even if you don’t believe it, but go on the adventure with God of discovering who He sees you as – His truth and how He sees you.

Then explore that further with the Father and ask Him, “What does that mean, Father?” and discover love that way.

Time Stamps:

[0:49] – Special guest Fiona Griffiths introduced.

[3:54] – Warning that Fiona shares vulnerably about suicide attempts, but that it doesn’t end there, there is hope.

[4:25] – Jane & Fiona share how they have heard God this week.

[8:26] – Fiona describes the process of her body’s reaction when she hears God.

[10:52] – Fiona describes her Christian background.

[13:48] – Fiona shares one of the first times she remembers hearing God.

[22:26] – Fiona shares the various ways she receives from God.

[27:06] – Fiona shares practical ways God has asked her to serve. Listen for His leading in the little things.

[34:48] – It’s all about intimacy and love.

[38:38] – The biggest takeaway is the love of the Father.

[40:09] – Prophetic activation.

[42:13] – Jane and Fiona share a prophetic word for a listener.

[45:09] – Fiona prays for you.

[46:13] – Fiona shares about her two books, ‘Freedom Lives Here’ and ‘Find Your Yes’.

Resources / Links Mentioned:

Bible Verses Mentioned:

Connect with Gary & Jane:

Support the show:

  • Please share this podcast with someone who would value hearing from God.
  • Follow and leave a rating + review on your favourite podcast listening app.
  • If God is leading your heart to donate or support the show in any way, please visit https://buymeacoffee/garyandjanM Thank you so much.
Episode 80: Will fasting help me hear God?

Episode 80: Will fasting help me hear God?

Jun 22, 2025 | 0 comments

Episode Description:

Have you ever wondered whether fasting would help you hear God? Basically, yes, fasting will help you hear God. In this episode, we cover the purpose of fasting, Biblical precedents, and what true fasting looks like. We emphasise that fasting helps create an environment where we can be more susceptible to hearing God, but as usual with God, there are no set formulas.

Episode Notes:

Our experience.

  • Our experience with fasting.
  • What to fast, e.g. food, TV, technology, etc
  • Holy Spirit guided.
  • Yes, fasting will help you hear God.

Purpose of fasting

  • Making a sacrifice to spend time pursuing God.
  • Proverbs 8:17 “Those who seek me will find me.”
  • How desperately do you want to hear/find God?
  • Minimising internal and external noise/clutter.
  • Recalibration/reset. Humbling ourselves and putting God back on the throne.
  • Creates space/vacuum.
  • Increase spiritual sensitivity.
  • Decrease distractions.
  • Reveals any control issues.

Biblical precedent

  • Psalm 69:10 “When I weep and fast” not if I fast
  • Danger – legalism.
  • Moses fasted 40 days when he received the 10 commandments (spiritual act of worship) and then another 40 days after coming down the mountain and seeing the people had made a golden calf – interceded on their behalf by fasting. Exodus 34:28-35 and Deuteronomy 9 & 10
  • Nehemiah 1:4 – Nehemiah fasted to help decide what he should do.
  • David fasted in 2 Samuel 12:17,23 when asking God to heal his son. Son still died. It’s not a ‘rubber stamp’ of approval.
  • Daniel fast in Daniel 1 along with Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego – partial fast.
  • Jesus fasted 40 days before he began His ministry. Matthew 4:1-11
  • Matthew 6:5-6 Don’t tell anyone when you fast.
  • Matthew 9:14-15 – After I go, then they will fast. Not legalistic.
  • Early church – pivotal moments of decision-making. Acts 13:2, 14:23. After they fasted and prayed, they then set apart certain people.
  • Stalwarts in church history. John Knox was so well known for how much he prayed and fasted that Queen Mary said she feared his prayers more than all the armies of Scotland.

True fasting

  • Reveals heart motivation. True repentance and not an external act to get God’s attention.
  • Isaiah 58: 3 – how dare you, on the day of your fast, exploit your workers. Verse 4 – your fasting ends in quarrelling and strife.
  • Isaiah 58: 6-9 “Is not this the kind of fasting I have chosen: to loose the chains of injustice and untie the cords of the yoke, to set the oppressed free and break every yoke? Is it not to share your food with the hungry and to provide the poor wanderer with shelter— when you see the naked, to clothe them,and not to turn away from your own flesh and blood? Then your light will break forth like the dawn, and your healing will quickly appear; then your righteousness will go before you, and the glory of the Lord will be your rear guard. Then you will call, and the Lord will answer; you will cry for help, and he will say: Here am I.
  • Fasting is a means of humbling myself before the Lord.
  • I’ve been really challenged – Can I afford not to fast?

Summary:

  • The purpose of fasting.
  • The Biblical precedent.
  • True fasting.

And yes, fasting with the right attitude will help you hear God better.

Prophetic activation:

Turn your heart and thoughts to Father God and ask Him –

  • “God, Would You love me to set aside time this next week to fast and listen for Your voice more clearly?”
  • If so, “God is there anything in particular You would like me to focus on?”

Time Stamps:

[0:41] – Gary & Jane share how they have heard God this week.

[4:18] – Our experience with fasting.

[7:35] – The purpose of fasting.

[11:04] – Biblical precedents with fasting.

[13:42] – True fasting

[15:44] – Summary

[16:31] – Prophetic activation.

[17:29] – Gary & Jane both share a prophetic word for a listener.

[19:16] – Gary prays for you.

Resources / Links Mentioned:

Bible Verses Mentioned:

  • Proverbs 8:17
  • Psalm 69:10
  • Exodus 34:28-35
  • Deuteronomy 9 & 10
  • Nehemiah 1:4
  • 2 Samuel 12:17,23
  • Daniel 1
  • Matthew 4:1-11
  • Matthew 6:5-6
  • Matthew 9:14-15
  • Acts 13:2; 14:23
  • Isaiah 58:3, 6-9

Connect with Gary & Jane:

Support the show:

  • Please share this podcast with someone who would value hearing from God.
  • Follow and leave a rating + review on your favourite podcast listening app.
  • If God is leading your heart to donate or support the show in any way, please visit https://buymeacoffee/garyandjanM Thank you so much.
Episode 79: How can I grow in seeing in the Spirit?

Episode 79: How can I grow in seeing in the Spirit?

Jun 15, 2025 | 0 comments

Episode Description:

Have you ever wanted to see what God is doing in the spirit world? You will love this episode packed with stories and practical tips as Gary & Jane unpack this topic and share their experiences. They cover cleansing your imagination, asking God to show you what He is doing and then what to do with that, how to deal with nightmares and shifting the focus, what to do when you feel overwhelmed in a situation, but most importantly, focussing on God, your relationship with Him and what He wants you to see.

Episode Notes:

Our experience.

First Principle: Recognise there are different ways of seeing in the Spirit.

  • Dreams
  • Visions (dream but awake)
  • Angels and demons
  • Glimpses e.g. out the corner of the eye, a flash or shadow. May feel something.
  • God-incidences
  • God bring physical things to your attention e.g. number plate, sign on building, etc
  • Combination using the strongest sense, eg hearing and seeing images together.
  • 2 Kings 6:15- 17.

Second Principle: Ask God to help you.

  • Luke 11:9-13.
  • Learning to ride a bike.
  • Write down what you see (the details) and what it means.
  • Interpret the meaning – The Talmud says a dream without interpretation is like a letter not read.
  • Then – what do I do with what I’ve seen and interpreted? Do I pray? Wait? Share?
  • Proverbs 25:2 “It is the glory of God to conceal a matter but the glory of Kings to search out a matter.”
  • Hide and seek with God. Investigate. Uncover the hidden truths. Be inquisitive. Curious and diligent to work it out. God hides things for us, not from us.
  • Contrasting God and your role – God’s is of divine mystery. Our role is to seek out truth – not passive observer.
  • Proverbs 25 is full of doublets. Don’t waste time on fruitless searches or wild goose chases.

Third Principle: Practice

  • Get a mentor.
  • Read books.
  • Focus on what God’s doing, not the dark side. Eg Frank Peretti’s “Piercing the Darkness” series of books – massively compelled to pray but realised I was praying out of fear, not out of love or relationship.
  • Stretch your faith. Grow in your relationship with God.
  • What you focus on, you see. Think of God as the revealer at the right time. In Daniel 2, God concealed it from King Nebuchadnezzar but revealed it to Daniel in a vision during the night.
  • Discern what is of God and what isn’t. You want to see good and pure stuff, not the evil side. If you see demons, ask God to show you where He is. E.g. with nightmares. Where is Father God, Holy Spirit, and Jesus?
  • When someone describes a scene, imagine it in your mind and see if God tells, shows or gives you a feeling to relate to that. Imagine what you are hearing.

Pray:

  • Repent – what you viewed in past, and unbelief, doubt and fear of what you may see.
  • Cleanse imagination.
  • Ask for help.
  • Blessing of the relationship between soul and spirit. Grow your spirit so it is in charge of your soul and mind.

Summary:

  1. Recognise there are different ways of seeing in the Spirit.
  2. Ask God to help you see what He is doing supernaturally.
  3. Practice.

Prophetic activation:

Turn your heart and thoughts to Father God and ask Him to show you what He’s doing around you at the moment. You might like to close your eyes as you ask Him:

  • “God, where are You at the moment in relation to me?”
  • “What are You doing around me or in my life at the moment that You’d love me to be aware of?”
  • “Where are You in this room?”
  • Open your eyes, look at a particular spot in the room, and ask the Holy Spirit to show you something about that place.

Time Stamps:

[0:41] – Gary & Jane share how they have heard God this week.

[5:35] – Our experience of seeing in the Spirit.

[11:45] – First Principle: Recognise there are different ways of seeing in the Spirit.

[14:36] – Advice if you are feeling overwhelmed in a situation.

[14:52] – Second Principle: Ask God to help you.

[22:41] – Third Principle: Practice.

[26:18] – Prayer to cleanse imagination.

[28:17] – Summary

[30:00] – Prophetic activation.

[31:16] – Gary & Jane both share a prophetic word for a listener.

[33:14] – Gary prays for you.

Resources / Links Mentioned:

Bible Verses Mentioned:

  • 2 Kings 6:15-17
  • Luke 11:9-13
  • Proverbs 25:2, 16-17,27
  • Daniel 2

Connect with Gary & Jane:

Support the show:

  • Please share this podcast with someone who would value hearing from God.
  • Follow and leave a rating + review on your favourite podcast listening app.
  • If God is leading your heart to donate or support the show in any way, please visit https://buymeacoffee/garyandjanM Thank you so much.
Episode 78: Hearing God with Esther Tucker

Episode 78: Hearing God with Esther Tucker

Jun 8, 2025 | 0 comments

Episode Description:

In this raw and vulnerable interview, Esther Tucker shares powerfully how God has used her when she has been open to God’s prompting and prepared just to show up. Esther and her husband, Derek, live in Asia, training international students to be leaders and potential church planters and helping them discover their life’s calling. Through her humility, Esther will impact, encourage, and challenge you as she shares what God has done in her life. She invites us to be courageous and say yes to God.

Prophetic activation:

Reflect with God on what is unmissable in your life.

  • What does God want you to see today?
  • What does God want you to see in your everyday?
  • What have you been missing because you’ve been rushing through life?
  • What was the thing you could have stopped along the way for and seen that you missed because you were in a hurry?

Time Stamps:

[0:47] – Special guest Esther Tucker introduced.

[6:23] – Jane & Esther share how they have heard God this week.

[14:27] – Esther describes her Christian background.

[16:45] – Esther shares a powerful time when God was real for her.

[23:13] – Esther shares how God positioned her to meet a lady on a plane trip.

[29:38] – Esther shares how she best receives from God.

[33:12] – Esther shares how God orchestrated a meeting with a specific lady needing help.

[41:01] – Esther challenges us to say yes to God and surrender our own agenda.

[42:46] – Prophetic activation.

[43:39] – Jane and Esther share a prophetic word for a listener.

[46:43] – Esther prays for you.

Resources / Links Mentioned:

Bible Verses Mentioned:

  • Ephesians 6:10-17
  • Joshua 1:6, 7, 9
  • Ephesians 3:20

Connect with Gary & Jane:

Support the show:

  • Please share this podcast with someone who would value hearing from God.
  • Follow and leave a rating + review on your favourite podcast listening app.
  • If God is leading your heart to donate or support the show in any way, please visit https://buymeacoffee/garyandjanM Thank you so much.
Episode 77: Word of the Year and Month Explained

Episode 77: Word of the Year and Month Explained

Jun 1, 2025 | 0 comments

Episode Description:

I don’t want to miss the opportunity to thank God for something because I haven’t recorded or noted it. What about you? In this episode of the ‘Hearing God’ Podcast, we unpack why and how we ask God for a word for the year and each month. Like Habakkuk in Habakkuk 2, we write it down, stand firm, and look to see how it will be expressed for that year and month.

Episode Notes:

Why and how we ask God for a word for the year and for each month is explained. We then describe the outcome of undertaking this over the last several years. Jane then unpacks her word for the year and each month for 2025.

Prophetic activation:

List the months for the rest of the year. Turn your heart and thoughts to Father God and ask Him:

  • “Is there an overarching theme for the rest of the year for me?”
  • “And what word/phrase do You have for me for each of the remaining months?”

Then, take delight at the end of each month by reflecting on the month and how you saw it being expressed in your life.

Time Stamps:

[0:40] – An explanation of why this episode.

[1:15] – Purpose of word for the year.

[3:54] – Gary & Jane briefly share how they have heard God this week.

[10:12] – Introduce questions from listeners.

[10:31] – Introduce the word for the year and each month.

[11:46] – Recap the last two years’ word of the year and month.

[15:49] – 2025 word of the year and each month.

[22:04] – Summary

[24:19] – Prophetic activation.

[25:20] – Gary & Jane both share a prophetic word for a listener.

[27:03] – Gary prays for you.

Resources / Links Mentioned:

Bible Verses Mentioned:

  • Habakkuk 2:1-2

Connect with Gary & Jane:

Support the show:

  • Please share this podcast with someone who would value hearing from God.
  • Follow and leave a rating + review on your favourite podcast listening app.
  • If God is leading your heart to donate or support the show in any way, please visit https://buymeacoffee/garyandjanM Thank you so much.
Episode 76: How can I grow in hearing God (part 2)?

Episode 76: How can I grow in hearing God (part 2)?

May 25, 2025 | 0 comments

Episode Description:

In the last episode, we shared practical tips for helping you grow in hearing God and the principles of growing closer to God, purposing in your heart to hear God, enjoying the journey with God, and having a mentor. Join us in this episode of the ‘Hearing God’ Podcast as we share more principles and practical examples that have helped us grow in hearing God in our daily lives.

Episode Notes:

First Principle: Look for “God-opportunities”.

  • Usually, when we can’t be bothered, or when people irritate us, God is inviting us to grow in Him. We have learnt to ask, “What’s God saying to me?”
  • Neighbours – God’s bringing people into my life for a season as they need to get to know God, and He positions them because He can trust us.
  • Gary with specific clients – God can trust that Gary will go above and beyond and help them in other areas of their lives.

Second Principle: Keep a journal.

  • Keep a record.
  • Write your thoughts down, e.g. “God – how do you want me to grow in hearing you?”

Third Principle: Be yourself

  • Stretch yourself, but be true to who God made you to be.

Summary:

  1. Look for “God-opportunities”.
  2. Journal – keep a record.
  3. Be yourself.

Prophetic activation:

Have a journal/paper, Bible, and pen with you. Turn your heart and thoughts to Father God, and write at the top of the page, “God, how would You love me to grow in hearing You?”. Then, let your thoughts flow and write down what comes to you. Don’t try to edit or question, “Is that me, or is it God?”. Whatever comes into your mind, write it down. If it’s a picture, you might like to draw it or try to describe the image. And then look at other questions you could ask God. At the end of your writing, read back and be amazed at what you wrote and how God spoke to you.

Time Stamps:

[0:48] – Gary & Jane briefly share how they have heard God this week.

[6:12] – First Principle: Look for “God-opportunities”.

[10:04] – Second Principle: Journal.

[13:48] – Third Principle: Be yourself.

[15:42] – Summary

[16:15] – Prophetic activation.

[17:52] – Gary & Jane both share a prophetic word for a listener.

[20:00] – Gary prays for you.

Resources / Links Mentioned:

Bible Verses Mentioned:

Connect with Gary & Jane:

Support the show:

  • Please share this podcast with someone who would value hearing from God.
  • Follow and leave a rating + review on your favourite podcast listening app.
  • If God is leading your heart to donate or support the show in any way, please visit https://buymeacoffee/garyandjanM Thank you so much.
Episode 75: How can I grow in hearing God (part 1)?

Episode 75: How can I grow in hearing God (part 1)?

May 18, 2025 | 0 comments

Episode Description:

Would you love to hear God clearly and easily? Hearing God can be as natural and encouraging as hearing a close friend. Join us in this episode of the ‘Hearing God’ Podcast as we share practical examples and tips for hearing God in our daily lives.

Episode Notes:

In episodes 8 & 9, we looked at how we can grow in our ability to hear God. We specifically looked at:

  • Cultivate intimacy with God.
  • Practice
  • Get feedback
  • Have fun

First Principle: We grow in hearing God by becoming closer to God.

  • Intimacy is so important.
  • Intentionally grow your relationship with God.
  • How’s your Bible reading going?
  • Is there anyone you need to forgive at the moment?
  • Is there an area of your life you still haven’t obeyed God in yet?

Second Principle: Purpose in your heart to hear God.

  • If you have prepared yourself and plan ahead, it is easier.
  • Look for incremental improvements.
  • Consistency is important.
  • Don’t compare.
  • Keep focused on God and not others.

Third Principle: Enjoy the journey

  • Learning to enjoy the process as well as the outcome.
  • Celebrate ‘attempts’ as well as successes.
  • Keep curious.

Fourth Principle: Have a mentor.

  • Someone you can run things past and ask questions.

Summary:

  1. We grow in hearing God by becoming closer to God.
  2. Purpose in your heart to hear God.
  3. Enjoy the journey.
  4. Have a mentor.

Prophetic activation:

Have a journal/paper, Bible, and pen with you. Turn your heart and thoughts to Father God, and as you think about God, write a list of ways God has shown His faithfulness to you or things you are grateful to God for. Read through the list. Ask God to highlight something on your list and reveal something more about that person/incident. (Is there anything more God You would like to show or tell me about?)

Time Stamps:

[0:36] – Gary & Jane briefly share how they have heard God this week.

[6:20] – Revision of episodes 8 & 9.

[7:31] – First Principle: We grow in hearing God by becoming closer to God.

[13:24] – Second Principle: Purpose in your heart to hear God.

[16:37] – Third Principle: Enjoy the journey.

[18:06] – Fourth Principle: Have a mentor.

[20:27] – Summary

[21:05] – Prophetic activation.

[23:12] – Gary & Jane both share a prophetic word for a listener.

[25:23] – Gary prays for you.

Resources / Links Mentioned:

Bible Verses Mentioned:

  • Psalm 100:4
  • Hebrews 12:1-2

Connect with Gary & Jane:

Support the show:

  • Please share this podcast with someone who would value hearing from God.
  • Follow and leave a rating + review on your favourite podcast listening app.
  • If God is leading your heart to donate or support the show in any way, please visit https://buymeacoffee/garyandjanM Thank you so much.
Episode 74: Can I hear God anywhere?

Episode 74: Can I hear God anywhere?

May 11, 2025 | 0 comments

Episode Description:

Scripture is full of various places where people met and heard God. There is not just one place here on earth that has a monopoly on hearing God. However, there can be places where we find it easier to hear God. How often do we create time and space to hear God where we sense Him the strongest? Join us in this episode of the ‘Hearing God’ Podcast as we share practical examples and tips for hearing God.

Episode Notes:

First Principle: Scripture is full of places where people heard God.

  • At the Table – Gospels full of Jesus ministering and speaking at the table, eg Matthew’s party in Luke 5:29, Zaccheus, the Last Supper eg Matthew 26.
  • Celebrations and weddings eg John 2 wedding at Cana.
  • Storms of life – eg boat on water Matthew 8:23-27
  • In bed sick Matthew 8:14-15 Jesus heals Peter’s mother-in-law.
  • During journeys eg Road to Emmaus Luke 24:13- 35 2 The disciples didn’t recognise Him (I don’t want to not recognise Jesus.)
  • Paul on the road blinded by light (Acts 9)
  • In a cave (exhausted and afraid, depressed) followed by on the mountain – 1 Kings 19
  • Whilst sleeping – dreams Joseph – the dream of technicolour coat Genesis 37, Joseph Mary’s husband in Matthew 1-2 – several dreams about marrying Mary and then taking Mary & Jesus to escape to Egypt.
  • In battle – David 2 Samuel 5:17-25 Israelites fighting the Philistines twice. Both times, David enquired of the Lord, and God gave him a different strategy. God is not into “cookie cutting” but unique strategies. 2nd time, don’t go straight up but circle around the back.
  • Gideon in Judges 7 – God reduced his army from 32,000 men to 300 men. Then the strategy came through overhearing the telling of a dream by the Midianites – loaf of barley bread came tumbling down the hill – trumpets in one hand and torches in jars in the other and break the jars.
  • Joshua in Joshua 5 with marching around Jericho 6 times and the 7th day to march around 7 times with the priests blowing the trumpet each time and then when long blast on the trumpet – whole army give a loud shout.
  • Up early – Mark 1:35 – Jesus got up early and intentionally set time aside to commune with God.
  • Doing life. Exodus 3:3-4 – Moses with unusual site – burning bush. Turn aside. Idea pops into head.
  • 2 Kings 3:15 “While the harpist was playing, the hand of the Lord came upon Elisha.”
  • Death and funerals – Lazarus John 11:1-44
  • Nature
  • Work / daily life

Second Principle: Be where God is

  • A bit of an oxymoron as God is everywhere. He is omnipresent.
  • Physical location – Samuel – the presence of God around the ark. 1 Samuel 3. Intentionally went and lay there – verse 3, the lamp of God hadn’t yet gone out. So he made time and created space to be where God was strongest.
  • Where is God strongest for me?
  • “Thin” places
  • Emotional location – if fear, worry, anxiety, hurry, and chaos present – harder to hear God.
  • Spiritual location – church, worship, Bible reading, soaking/meditation. Mountain top experience. If envy, hate, or disobedience present – hard to hear God. Barriers between you and God.

Third Principle: Look for patterns as to where you hear God best.

  • Psalm 78:1 The Message says, “Listen, dear friends, to God’s truth, bend your ears to what I tell you.” Hear my teaching. Listen. Then lean in.
  • Listening – giving our attention to God. Making it a priority.
  • Secondly – lean in. Bend your ear. Lessen distractions like radio stations and static.
  • Jane – running water.

Summary:

  1. Scripture is full of places where people heard God.
  2. Be where God is.
  3. Look for patterns as to where you hear God best.

Prophetic activation:

  • Think of a place locally where you wouldn’t normally go. In the next week, carve out 20-30 minutes to go there. Take your Bible, journal, pen etc. Once you are there, ask God,
  • “God, what do You want me to do now?”
  • “God, is there anything in particular You would love to show me here?”
  • “God, what would You love to say to me at the moment?”

Time Stamps:

[1:01] – Gary & Jane briefly share how they have heard God this week.

[3:29] – First Principle: Scripture is full of places where people heard God.

[9:05] – Second Principle: Be where God is.

[13:44] – Third Principle: Look for patterns as to where you hear God best.

[18:27] – Summary

[18:50] – Prophetic activation.

[20:30] – Gary & Jane both share a prophetic word for a listener.

[21:59] – Gary prays for you.

Resources / Links Mentioned:

Bible Verses Mentioned:

  • Luke 5:29
  • Matthew 26
  • John 2
  • Matthew 8:23-27
  • Matthew 8:14-15
  • Luke 24:13-35
  • Acts 9
  • 1 Kings 19
  • Genesis 37
  • Matthew 1-2
  • Luke 19
  • 2 Samuel 5:17-25
  • Judges 7
  • Joshua 6
  • Mark 1:35
  • Exodus 3:3-4
  • 2 Kings 3:15
  • John 11:1-44
  • Judges 3:12-26
  • Esther
  • Luke 10
  • 2 Kings 4:1-7
  • Psalm 139:7-8
  • 1 Samuel 3
  • Psalm 78:1

Connect with Gary & Jane:

Support the show:

  • Please share this podcast with someone who would value hearing from God.
  • Follow and leave a rating + review on your favourite podcast listening app.
  • If God is leading your heart to donate or support the show in any way, please visit https://buymeacoffee/garyandjanM Thank you so much.
Episode 73: Will God tell me who I should marry?

Episode 73: Will God tell me who I should marry?

May 4, 2025 | 0 comments

Episode Description:

Will God tell me who I should marry? I think sometimes we are asking God the wrong question. Instead of asking God who should I marry or should I marry this person, more effective questions to ask God are: “What sort of person is best for me to marry?’ and “What are Your thoughts about this person, God?” as well as “Who do I need to be to marry this person?” Join us in this episode of the ‘Hearing God’ Podcast as we share our story and real-life examples from others, plus practical tips and Biblical principles of finding a marriage partner.

Episode Notes:

First Principle: God can and will do anything

  • We’ve all heard stories about the first time someone laid eyes on a particular person, and God told them they would marry them. Please do not go up to them and say that.
  • Be careful of “God told me to marry this person”. It is often abused. God gets the bad wrap. What happens if you split up? You end up blaming God or having a crisis of faith. Often incorrect theology. Also, feelings are not facts.
  • Your character is more important.
  • God gives us freedom in choosing, but listen to wise and trusted advice.
  • In the Bible, God told several people who to marry: Hosea 1:2, a prostitute. Joseph in Matthew 1 to not be afraid to marry Mary. Abraham’s servant who asked very specifically for a wife for Isaac in Genesis.

Second Principle: Follow the Biblical principles

  • Do not be unequally yoked. 2 Corinthians 6:14 “Do not be yoked together with unbelievers.” The Message version puts it as “Does Christ go strolling with the devil?”
  • This applies to business and unequally spiritually eg new Christian and mature Christian. Wait.
  • Is the fruit of the Spirit evident in their life? Galatians 5:22-23. Use the Bible as a guideline for the qualities that should be evident in a future partner.
  • Go where you will find like-minded people. If you hang out at nightclubs, bars, etc., you will find people who are different from those at church. Beware of secular dating apps.
  • If you have found a person through a dating app and begun a relationship, delete the dating app. Do not play with fire.
  • Listen to wise, trusted advice.
  • Find someone with a similar vision for life.
  • Look at the purpose of dating.

Third Principle: Be the right person

  • Your identity needs to be that of a child of God rather than having a partner.
  • If you are not ‘enough’ with being single, you will never be ‘enough’ being married.
  • Marriage isn’t the ‘end all and be all’. Any problems you have in your life won’t go away with a partner. They will only be magnified.
  • Chase after God and being all He wants you to be.
  • Your character is so Be the right person.
  • There is no hurry. It’s better to wait a few more months or years than hurry into something and regret it for a lifetime.
  • Remember, in your relationship with God, it is not just connecting with God to get answers. It is all about relationship and intimacy.

Summary:

  1. God can and will do anything.
  2. Follow the Biblical principles.
  3. Be the right person.

Prophetic activation:

Quieten your thoughts and heart, and imagine that you are at a water park. In your mind, see the bright sunny day. Feel the warmth on your skin. See the sparkling blue water. As you turn your heart and thoughts to Father God, ask Him to show you where you are in that scene at that water park. Are you sunbaking on a seat? Are you splashing in the water? Deep diving? High on a diving board ready to jump off? Ask God,

  • “God, where am I in that picture?”
  • “God, can You please show me where the person is in the picture that I need in my life at the moment?”

Time Stamps:

[0:37] – Gary & Jane briefly share how they have heard God this week.

[3:45] – Gary & Jane share their journey of finding each other.

[7:00] – First Principle: God can and will do anything.

[9:58] – Second Principle: Follow the Biblical principles.

[18:38] – Third Principle: Be the right person.

[20:58] – Summary

[21:21] – Prophetic activation.

[23:26] – Gary & Jane both share a prophetic word for a listener.

[25:25] – Gary prays for you.

Resources / Links Mentioned:

Bible Verses Mentioned:

  • Habakkuk 1 & 2
  • Hosea 1:2
  • Matthew 1
  • Genesis 24
  • 2 Corinthians 6:14
  • Galatians 5:19-23

Connect with Gary & Jane:

Support the show:

  • Please share this podcast with someone who would value hearing from God.
  • Follow and leave a rating + review on your favourite podcast listening app.
  • If God is leading your heart to donate or support the show in any way, please visit https://buymeacoffee/garyandjanM Thank you so much.
Episode 72: Can hearing God help me change the world?

Episode 72: Can hearing God help me change the world?

Apr 27, 2025 | 0 comments

Episode Description:

Would you love to change the world? How about changing your circumstances? Join us in this episode of the ‘Hearing God’ Podcast as we share both personal examples and stories from others of how hearing God implemented change and breakthrough.

Episode Notes:

First Principle: Hearing God can help you change the world.

Examples:

  • Mother Theresa’s call to go to the poorest of the poor and bring dignity and care.
  • William Wilberforce – shaped policies of politics – abolished slavery.
  • Harriet Tubman – smuggled slaves along the Underground Railroad – Holy Spirit prompting and heard God’s voice on developing safe houses along the route, where to go, etc.
  • Heidi Baker – Mozambique
  • Inventions – George Washington Carver asked God why the peanut was made. Urged farmers to plant peanut crops to replenish the soil as cotton had leeched the soil of goodness. Invented 300 uses for peanuts.
  • In 1450, Johannes Gutenberg invented the printing press – credits inspiration from hearing God.
  • Jacob, in the Bible, had a dream that enabled him to fund his family and future and leave his current circumstances. Genesis 30:25-43
  • Noah received specific dimensions of the ark from God. Genesis 6:11-22
  • Joshua 6 – Joshua received battle plans to defeat the enemy.
  • Elias Howe – dreamt of cannibals preparing to cook him, dancing and raising their spears up and down. He realised the needle on the sewing machine needed a hole for the thread to go through.
  • Herge – plagued by nightmares chased by a white skeleton, and then the whole environment turned white. His psychiatrist said to stop drawing comics. Instead, he created “Tintin in Tibet”. Nightmares stopped.
  • Paul McCartney – wrote the music to Yesterday after hearing it in a dream.
  • Mendeleev dreamt of the periodic table’s structure after 3 days nonstop trying to work it out.

Second Principle: It depends on what changing the world looks like for you.

  • I believe everyone can help change someone else’s world by being nice, smiling at them etc.
  • God can bring a breakthrough for you. Change your perspective. Reassure you. Navigate your way forward.
  • Give you strategies.

Third Principle: Cultivate your relationship with God.

  • Relationship with God is the number one priority.
  • Just spend time with God, not for what you can get out of it, but for the sake of ‘being’ with God.
  • Make time to listen. Read the Bible
  • Look for patterns and recurring themes.
  • Character is important – Biblical values, integrity,
  • Take that step of faith. Need to act at some point.
  • Wise counsel is also important.

Summary:

  1. Hearing God can help you change the world.
  2. It depends on what changing the world looks like for you.
  3. Cultivate your relationship with God.

Prophetic activation:

Think of a current circumstance you’re facing and turn your heart and thoughts to Father God and ask Him –

  • “God, what do You want me to know about You in this situation?”
  • “God, what do I need to know about myself in this situation?”
  • “God, what do You want me to know about this situation I’m currently facing?”
  • “God, what do You want me to learn from this?”

Time Stamps:

[0:40] – Gary & Jane briefly share how they have heard God this week.

[3:57] – First Principle: Hearing God can help you change the world.

[13:56] – Second Principle: It depends on what changing the world looks like for you.

[18:01] – Third Principle: Cultivate your relationship with God.

[18:43] – Summary

[19:10] – Prophetic activation.

[20:38] – Gary & Jane both share a prophetic word for a listener.

[22:33] – Gary prays for you.

Resources / Links Mentioned:

Bible Verses Mentioned:

  • Genesis 30:25-43
  • Genesis 31:10-13
  • Genesis 6:11-22
  • Joshua 6
  • Joshua 1:6-9

Connect with Gary & Jane:

Support the show:

  • Please share this podcast with someone who would value hearing from God.
  • Follow and leave a rating + review on your favourite podcast listening app.
  • If God is leading your heart to donate or support the show in any way, please visit https://buymeacoffee/garyandjanM Thank you so much.
Episode 71: Will God tell me what to do with my life?

Episode 71: Will God tell me what to do with my life?

Apr 20, 2025 | 0 comments

Episode Description:

Would you love God to clearly show and tell you what you should do with your life? Are you at a crossroads in your life? Join us as we unpack hearing from God concerning your life purpose and share stories of how God has guided us with our various decisions.

Episode Notes:

First Principle: God can tell you what to do with your life, but perhaps not how you expect.

  • Childhood dreams. God put those dreams in your heart.
  • Gifts and abilities.
  • Inborn predisposition.
  • God can speak and show you.
  • Movie Bonhoeffer.
  • Christian missionary stories were brilliant – “YWAM Christian Heroes Then and Now” by Janet and Geoff Benge.

Second Principle: God’s will for your life is not singular or solitary.

  • Not one ‘right’ way.
  • Susannah Wesley – 19 children, but only 10 survived to adulthood. Mother to Charles and John Wesley. Strong-willed. Educated. Married to a poor rector. “What if I was to do my part?”
  • Micah 6:8b “And what does the Lord require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God.”
  • John 13:35 “By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.”

Third Principle: Your identity is not in what you do but who you are.

  • Ephesians 1 outlines who we are as a child of God.

Summary:

  1. God can tell you what to do with your life, but perhaps not in the way you expect.
  2. God’s will for your life is not singular or solitary.
  3. Your identity is not in what you do but who you are.

Prophetic activation:

Select something special to taste, and as you place that piece of food in your mouth,

turn your heart and thoughts to Father God and ask Him, “What do You want to say to me through tasting/savouring this mouthful?”

Time Stamps:

[0:45] – Gary & Jane briefly share how they have heard God this week.

[7:10] – First Principle: God can tell you what to do with your life, but perhaps not in the way you expect.

[11:11] – Second Principle: God’s will for your life is not singular or solitary.

[13:35] – Third Principle: Your identity is not in what you do but who you are.

[17:33] – Summary

[18:06] – Prophetic activation.

[19:23] – Gary & Jane both share a prophetic word for a listener.

[20:42] – Gary prays for you.

Resources / Links Mentioned:

Bible Verses Mentioned:

  • Psalm 34:8
  • Daniel 5:5
  • Micah 6:8b
  • John 13:35
  • Ephesians 1

Connect with Gary & Jane:

Support the show:

  • Please share this podcast with someone who would value hearing from God.
  • Follow and leave a rating + review on your favourite podcast listening app.
  • If God is leading your heart to donate or support the show in any way, please visit https://buymeacoffee/garyandjanM Thank you so much.
Episode 70: Can anyone hear God?

Episode 70: Can anyone hear God?

Apr 13, 2025 | 0 comments

Episode Description:

Do you believe that God would never talk to you? Do you think some people are so bad that God would never be interested in speaking with them? Gary & Jane share how nothing excludes you from hearing God, even in bizarre ways, but if you want to hear God more clearly, there are several things you can implement in your life. Join them as they unpack these principles.

Episode Notes:

First Principle: If a donkey can hear God, then anyone can hear God.

  • Numbers 22:21-34 – three times, Balaam’s donkey saw the angel of the Lord.
  • Many Muslims are hearing and seeing God through dreams.
  • Jamie Winship on identity – he helps people hear from God about their identity.

Second Principle: A more effective question is, “What can I do to hear God more clearly?”

  • Understanding how God speaks and the ways He speaks.
  • Hold on to John 10:2-16, especially verses 2 & 14 – my sheep know my voice.
  • It is normal to hear God’s voice if you are in a relationship with Him. This is an expected reality.
  • Doing life together with Jesus.

Third Principle: Sometimes we don’t recognise it is God speaking to us or there’s a block.

  • There is usually not only one way that God speaks to us
  • Sometimes, we may have selective hearing.

Summary:

  1. If a donkey can hear God, then anyone can hear God.
  2. A more effective question, “What can I do to hear God more clearly?”
  3. Sometimes, we don’t recognise it’s God speaking to us or there’s a block.

Prophetic activation:

Settle comfortably and turn your heart and thoughts to Father God. Imagine you’re in your favourite place, somewhere calm, relaxing and just you. Now imagine a book in your hands. Open the book and imagine seeing some words or a drawing on the page. What is written or drawn there? What does Jesus want to say to you through those words or picture?

Time Stamps:

[2:53] – Gary & Jane briefly share how they have heard God this week.

[6:19] – First Principle: If a donkey can hear God, then anyone can hear God.

[12:23] – Second Principle: A more effective question is, “What can I do to hear God more clearly?”

[19:58] – Third Principle: Sometimes we don’t recognise it is God speaking to us or there’s a block.

[22:49] – Summary

[23:18] – Prophetic activation.

[25:10] – Gary & Jane both share a prophetic word for a listener.

[27:02] – Gary prays for you.

Resources / Links Mentioned:

Bible Verses Mentioned:

  • Numbers 22:21-34
  • John 10:2-16
  • Jeremiah 33:3
  • Psalm 139:13-18
  • Psalm 119:105

Connect with Gary & Jane:

Support the show:

  • Please share this podcast with someone who would value hearing from God.
  • Follow and leave a rating + review on your favourite podcast listening app.
  • If God is leading your heart to donate or support the show in any way, please visit https://buymeacoffee/garyandjanM Thank you so much.