Episode 35: Hearing God with Simon Hardaker

Episode 35: Hearing God with Simon Hardaker

Episode Description:

Join Jane as she chats with Simon Hardaker about his Christian journey and how he hears from God. Simon is a great friend of Gary & Jane, has a fantastic teaching gift, and is brilliant at hearing God for himself and others. Simon chases after God and deliberately finds ways to grow in his walk with Jesus. You will be mightily encouraged as you listen to Simon share his experiences.

Episode Notes:

Simon shares his journey of becoming a Christian and growing in Christ. He shares how he best receives intel from God. Simon unpacks the importance of being careful what we say as our words come true.

Prophetic activation:

Turn your heart and thoughts to Father God and ask Him about a particular person –

  • “Father God, what would you have me say to this person?”

Time Stamps:

[0:49] – Introduction to Simon Hardaker.

[1:54] – Jane & Simon share briefly how they have heard God this week.

[4:39] – Simon shares how he became a Christian.

[6:42] – Simon explains what a ‘Word of Faith’ church means.

[14:24] – Simon explains prophecy.

[15:39] – Simon shares how he first recognised God speaking to him.

[17:40] – Simon shares how he best receives intel from God.

[19:03] – A memorable time of receiving from God for a workmate.

[21:52] – Simon’s method of ‘pressing in’ and growing in Christ.

[23:41] – A short piece of advice for listeners.

[26:02] – Prophetic activation.

[27:39] – Jane & Simon both share a prophetic word for a listener.

[30:15] – Simon prays for you.

Resources / Links Mentioned:

Bible Verses Mentioned:

  • Ezekiel 4
  • Mark 11:35
  • Genesis 1
  • Judges 6-8 (Gideon)
  • Luke 6:45
  • Isaiah 55:11

Connect with Gary & Jane:

Support the show:

  • Please share this podcast with someone who would value hearing from God.
  • Subscribe 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 34: Hearing God – Hosea (Bible)

Episode 34: Hearing God – Hosea (Bible)

Episode Description:

Join Gary & Jane in this latest episode of Hearing God as they share how Hosea in the Bible heard God. They unpack how God used Hosea’s life and actions to send specific messages to the Israelites who were unfaithful to God. God asked Hosea to marry a prostitute to demonstrate this. Since Hosea’s life was a prophetic act, Gary & Jane share what prophetic acts are and how they can change outcomes. Gary & Jane also share how our name is important and brings identity and purpose.

Episode Notes:

Background to Hosea:

  • Hosea lived around 755 – 715 BC, around the time of Isaiah, Micah, and Amos. He lived in the Northern Kingdom during the reign of King Jeroboam 2.
  • Hosea is famous for obeying God’s command to him to marry a prostitute who betrayed his trust. His wife committed adultery, and the Israelites committed spiritual adultery.
  • Hosea and his wife Gomer had three children whose names even sent messages of judgment upon Israel.
  • God used Hosea’s life and actions to send specific messages to the Israelites who were unfaithful to God, who had turned their back on God, and who were worshipping other Gods.
  • You see repentance, redemption, and restoration throughout Hosea’s life and that of the Israelites.

First Principle: God can and will do anything. God is sovereign. God can also ask us to do the unimaginable.

  • Are we prepared to follow God no matter what?
  • Will we remain faithful to God no matter what?
  • Hosea 1:1 – “the word of the Lord came to Hosea.”
  • Hosea 1:2 “When the word of the Lord came to Hosea, he said to Hosea…” Hosea obeyed God. Do we obey God quickly?
  • Hosea received from God through an auditory method.
  • The first three chapters are about how Hosea lived, and the following 11 are about what he was to say to Israel.
  • When you hear from God, run it past several tests – does it align with the nature and character of God, is there Biblical precedence, and see the advice of wise, trusted people.
  • Don’t hide behind ‘God told me to”.

Second Principle: Our name is important.

  • They had three children. God said to call the eldest son Jezreel – because I will punish the house of Jehu and put an end to the Kingdom of Israel.
  • Daughter Lo-Ruhamah means ‘not loved’ because I’ll no longer show love to Israel.
  • Son – Lo Ammi, which means ‘not my people’ for you (the Israelites) are not my people, and I am not your God.
  • Our name is important. It can signify identity, purpose, and character and is often symbolic.
  • There is often a correlation between hearing God and our identity.

Third Principle: Prophetic acts can change the outcome.

  • Hosea marrying Gomer was a prophetic act. He was marrying someone, knowing she would be unfaithful, just like God with Israel.
  • A prophetic act is something done (at God’s direction) in the natural (physical) realm that supports God’s workings in the spiritual realm to bring forth results manifested in the natural realm. It somehow opens the channel for releasing God’s presence, power, and victory to affect the physical realm and change outcomes.
  • It is not a formula or method you can blindly follow to produce different results. God is not a respecter of formulas. It is also not always possible to fully explain or justify the sense behind a prophetic act with our human mind. Doing something that constitutes a prophetic act is also not worthwhile if it doesn’t first come from God.
  • It is a physical action that God gives you to do that becomes a sign and decree to forge a breakthrough in the spiritual realm. Prophetic acts are powerful visual and kinaesthetic statements to the spirit world.
  • In today’s culture, we celebrate various occasions that once began as very symbolic and prophetic, e.g. 21st birthday key symbolising the key to the door, the wedding ring symbolising eternal love.

Biblical examples of prophetic acts: The Bible has many prophetic acts. Several examples are:

  • Ezekial 4 – Lying on the left/right side, food and drink preparation, prophesying to creation.
  • 2 Kings 13:14-19 – Elisha – King Jehoash’s arrow. Get an arrow and shoot it out the window. You will now destroy the Arameans at Aphek. Elijah also commanded him to strike the ground with the rest of the arrows, but King Jehoash only struck the ground three times instead of 6.
  • Exodus 12 – Israelite families killed a lamb and put blood on their doorposts
  • John 9:1-7 – Jesus putting clay on the blind man’s eyes.
  • The action can be for intercession, warfare, healing, a call to ministry etc. It can hold the spiritual power necessary for fulfilment or breakthrough.

The main principle with prophetic acts: Ask God what the issue is and whether He wants you to do a prophetic action to facilitate change. If so, what prophetic action comes to mind? Act on it whenever you feel prompted by the Holy Spirit.

Prophetic activation:

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

  • “Father God, what are Your thoughts about my name?”
  • “Father God, what do I need to know about my name?”
  • “Father God, what nickname do You call me?”
  • You may even ask God if there is a prophetic act He would like you to do.

Time Stamps:

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

[2:57] – Background to Hosea.

[4:21] – First Principle: God can and will do anything. God is sovereign. God can also ask us to do the unimaginable.

[7:34] – Second Principle: Our name is important.

[10:28] – Prayer for people who their name has wounded.

[12:27] – Third Principle – Prophetic acts can change the outcome.

[16:08] – Several Biblical examples of prophetic acts.

[17:12] – A significant prophetic act our family did and the outcome.

[20:46] – Recap the principles.

[21:19] – Prophetic activation.

[22:23] – Gary & Jane both share a prophetic word for a listener.

[24:27] – Gary prays for you.

Resources / Links Mentioned:

Bible Verses Mentioned:

  • Hosea 1-14
  • Ezekiel 4
  • 2 Kings 13:14-19
  • Exodus 12
  • John 9:1-7

Connect with Gary & Jane:

Support the show:

  • Please share this podcast with someone who would value hearing from God.
  • Subscribe 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 33: Hearing God – Saul/Paul (Bible)

Episode 33: Hearing God – Saul/Paul (Bible)

Episode Description:

Join Gary & Jane in this latest episode of Hearing God as they unpack how Paul first heard God in Acts 9 and his radical conversion. Gary & Jane share that God desires a relationship with everyone and that when we encounter God, we change. They both share their personal story of how they encountered God. Gary & Jane also cover how we can respond when God asks us to do something that doesn’t make sense.

Episode Notes:

First Principle: There is no one too bad for God. God desires a relationship with everyone.

Saul

  • Saul / Paul was a ruthless man. Arrogant, self-righteous, loved finding fault.
  • God talks to non-Christians.
  • Saul saw a light, heard a voice, and then went blind. The men travelling with him heard the sound but didn’t see anyone. Sometimes, it doesn’t make sense to those around us. Who do we trust in those times?
  • Acts 13, when we read of Saul, also known as Paul (Latin version), says Paul was filled with the Holy Spirit and could discern things. It was a ‘knowing’.

Second Principle: When we encounter God, we change.

  • Saul encounters God. Face to Face and had a radical transformation.
  • In Damascus, there was a Christian called Ananias, whom God told in a vision to go to Saul and pray for him to be able to see again. Ananias says, “Wait a minute, this guy will kill me” but follows what God told him to do.
  • Ananias goes and finds Saul and prays for him. Saul can see again and suddenly starts preaching and telling people about Christ—radical conversion.
  • There is always an outcome, a change when we encounter God.

Third Principle: How do we respond when we are asked to do something by God that doesn’t make sense.

  • Ananias was given specific directions (Acts 9:10-19) in a vision to go to a particular house on Straight Street and ask for a specific person (Saul).
  • Ananias responds by saying, “Hey, I’ve heard he wants to arrest Christians – are you sure God? It is okay to question God? What we do with the question and response is what is important.
  • God said Go and do this. Ananias obeys.
  • It is important to obey quickly, but if it sounds unusual, please check with mature people.
  • How many times do we miss out because we haven’t obeyed quickly? God uses someone else.

Activation:

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

  • Father God, who in my life needs to hear about You?
  • Father God, what do they need to know first about You?

Time Stamps:

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

[2:59] – First Principle – There is no one too bad for God. God desires a relationship with everyone.

[8:27] – Second Principle – When we encounter God, we change.

[10:55] – Jane’s encounter with Jesus.

[13:44] – Gary’s encounter with Jesus.

[15:14] – Prayer if you want to accept Jesus as Lord and Saviour of your life.

[17:13] – Third Principle – How do we respond when we are asked to do something by God that doesn’t make sense.

[21:02] – Recap the principles.

[21:36] – Prophetic activation.

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

[23:52] – Gary prays for you.

Resources / Links Mentioned:

Bible Verses Mentioned:

  • Acts 9:1-21
  • Acts 13

Connect with Gary & Jane:

Support the show:

  • Please share this podcast with someone who would value hearing from God.
  • Subscribe 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 32: Life Update

Episode 32: Life Update

Episode Description:

Join Gary & Jane in this latest episode of Hearing God as they share a life update of the adventure they have been on as a family over these last few months. As they share their journey, Gary & Jane unpack how they have heard God during this time and a situation where Jane felt she missed hearing God. They also cover important principles of how to deal with disappointment in God.

Episode Notes:

First Principle: Life/mission is messy.

  • Beach Mission – tents flooded, team members with Covid, team member broke his leg.
  • Our response is what is important, and so is our heart attitude.
  • In the busyness & tiredness, it is sometimes hard to hear God unless we’re intentional.

Second Principle: Plan but be open to change.

  • Family changes over the last few months.
  • Jane’s bold prayer at the end of November.
  • Jane study and new business called ‘Mums in Transition’.
  • What is our response when we don’t feel at peace, especially as a married couple?
  • Wrestling with God – how do we know? How do we settle the way forward?
  • If the 2 of us aren’t in agreement, we need to pause.

Third Principle: Guard your heart during change

  • Something I had been praying for years didn’t work out.
  • It is easy to be angry at God or disappointed in Him.
  • Tired and hungry – Elijah in 1 Kings 18 & 19. Elijah had just experienced this incredible miracle. The next minute, Elijah is depressed and fearing for his life. An angel of the Lord said, “Get up and eat”. Address physical issues first – hungry and tired.
  • Don’t make any big life decisions when exhausted or heartbroken.
  • Doubts, questioning, and heartache all common.
  • Go back to what you know from God.
  • We are not God. We can’t see the whole picture.
  • Be careful what you fill any void with.

Activation:

Turn your heart and thoughts to Father God and ask Him to show you if you are disappointed with Him.

  • Father God, can you please show or tell me if I harbour any disappointment towards You, especially when things haven’t turned out as I had prayed?
  • Father God, what do I need to do about this?
  • Father God, what else would You love me to know about this?

Time Stamps:

[0:57] – Gary & Jane share briefly how they have heard God this week.

[5:44] – First Principle – Life/mission is messy.

[10:27] – Second Principle – Plan but be open to change.

[15:32] – A situation of unease between Gary & Jane & how they dealt with it.

[20:27] – Third Principle – Guard your heart during change.

[23:38] – Recap the principles.

[24:04] – Prophetic activation.

[25:18] – Gary & Jane both share a prophetic word for a listener.

[26:42] – Gary prays for you.

Resources / Links Mentioned:

Bible Verses Mentioned:

  • Psalm 46:10
  • 1 Kings 18 & 19

Connect with Gary & Jane:

Support the show:

  • Share this podcast with someone who would value hearing from God.
  • Subscribe 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 31 Hearing God at Christmas

Episode 31 Hearing God at Christmas

** We have a free 30-day pdf devotional – ‘Hearing God for the New Year’. You can download your copy here: https://www.unlockingthegold.com/product/hearing-god-for-the-new-year/

** Gary and Jane are taking a break from the Hearing God Podcast until February due to seasonal, family, and mission commitments. We encourage you to listen to past episodes over January.

Episode Description:

Christmas is a fantastic time for sharing the good news about Christ. We have the opportunity to speak into many people’s lives, encouraging them through both words (verbal and written) and gifts. Join us as we share practical ways to encourage yourself and others by hearing from God at this significant time.

Episode Notes:

First Principle: Hearing God for yourself this Christmas

  • Spend time with God.
  • Creative methods of rekindling the wonder of Christmas.

Second Principle: Hearing God for Others – ways to encourage people this Christmas season

  • People to prophetically encourage.
  • Ways to prophetically encourage people.
  • Acts of kindness.
  • Make space and time.

Third Principle: Bringing Christ into the centre of your Christmas

  • Change the atmosphere.
  • Christ came to bring joy, freedom, relationship, restoration, forgiveness, peace, and love.

Prophetic activation:

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

  • Father God, who do You want to be for me this Christmas?
  • Father God, how do You want me to celebrate You this Christmas?
  • Father God, am I creating an idol out of Christmas with my expectations?
  • Do I have to have the house perfect?
  • Do I need to give (and receive) the perfect present?
  • Are my emotional needs being ‘filled’ or ‘unmet’ by expectations surrounding the perfect Christmas when You should be taking that place?
  • Am I creating an ‘idol’ out of Christmas with my expectations of the ‘perfect’ Christmas?
  • Is there a lie I’m believing about having the ‘perfect’ Christmas?
  • Father God, am I spending my time, energy, money and thought life in a pleasing manner to You?
  • Am I spending too much time, energy and money on insignificant things?
  • Am I overthinking situations and creating a bigger problem in my mind?
  • Am I spending excessive time thinking about what to buy for people?
  • Have I fallen into the trap of people-pleasing?
  • Father God, how am I communicating Your love, peace, joy and power?
  • Father God, are people attracted to You through me?

Time Stamps:

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

[8:04] – First Principle – Hearing God for yourself this Christmas.

[11:45] – Second Principle – Hearing God for others at Christmas.

[14:22] – Different ways to prophetically encourage others.

[16:02] – Third Principle – Bring Christ into the centre of your Christmas.

[19:03] – Recap the principles.

[19:37] – Explanation of the ‘Hearing God for the New Year’ 30-day devotional pdf.

[21:38] – Prophetic activation.

[23:08] – Gary & Jane both share a prophetic word for a listener.

[25:38] – Jane prays a Christmas blessing over you.

[28:15] – The next podcast will be in February due to seasonal, family, and mission commitments.

Resources / Links Mentioned:

Bible Verses Mentioned:

  • 1 Corinthians 14:3
  • Matthew 22:37-38
  • Mark 12:30-31
  • Luke 10:27
  • John 13:34-35
  • Ephesians 3:20
  • Proverbs 31:25
  • Jeremiah 29:11

Connect with Gary & Jane:

Support the show:

  • Share this podcast with someone who would value hearing from God.
  • Subscribe 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.

**30-day Devotional – Hearing God for the New Year

(available as a pdf download here)

This 30-day devotional has daily Bible verses and questions to help you hear God’s heart for you in the new year.

The start of a year is a fantastic time to reflect on the past year and dream with God to set new goals for the coming year. This 30-day devotional is ideal for reviewing and planning, realising that “many are the plans in a person’s heart, but it is the Lord’s purpose that prevails. (Proverbs 19:21)

Each day has questions for you to answer, plus questions to ask God about your life as you ponder and meditate on specific Bible verses.

God has so much He would love to share with us throughout this process. I encourage you to pause and listen to the things on God’s heart for you for this coming year. If you would like to know how to hear what God is trying to communicate to you, click here to listen to episode 4 of our ‘Hearing God’ Podcast – ‘How does God talk to us’.

In the Hearing God Podcast, we encourage you to go with the ‘first thought’ principle – the first thought that comes into your head, as long as it aligns with Scripture, the character of God, and you are in a healthy place with God. You can listen to an explanation of the ‘first thought’ principle here in episode 3.

This 30-day devotional on Hearing God for 2024 covers:

  • Reviewing 2023
  • Achievements, challenges and pain, and the joys from 2023
  • Answers to prayer, and memory stones from last year
  • Distractions and disruptions from 2023
  • Things I need to let go of, plus areas still to obey God in
  • Seeing where God is currently working in my life and partnering with Him in this place
  • What God, Holy Spirit, and Jesus are currently praying for me
  • My values and vision
  • Monthly theme/word for 2024
  • Areas to grow and mature in, and where wisdom is needed
  • Asking God for impossible dreams
  • My unique Kingdom purpose
  • My 2024 roles and priorities
  • Disciplines needed
  • Any concerns going forward
  • Accountability
  • Intimacy with God and areas to grow in
  • How, and what, I will celebrate in 2024
  • What I will speak over myself  to see come to fruition

Episode 30: Hearing God through Seeing

Episode 30: Hearing God through Seeing

Episode Description:

Imagine having the supernatural ability to see spiritual realities in the invisible realm. Hearing from God this way can be developed. Join Gary & Jane as they unpack how to hear from God with both natural and spiritual sight, grounding this with Biblical examples. They share personal examples to help you understand how you can hear God through seeing. They also share helpful tips for stewarding your ability to see in the Spirit, especially your child’s ability.

Episode Notes:

First Principle: Hearing from God through our natural sight.

  • Noticing numbers, signs, and coincidences.

Second Principle: Hearing from God through our spiritual sight.

  • Prophetic visions, pictures, visual impressions of the mind
  • Dreams
  • Three kinds of visions.
  • Helpful advice for stewarding this gift of seeing the supernatural.

Third Principle: We can grow and develop our ability to see in the Spirit and receive from God.

  • Eight helpful steps to grow your spiritual sight.

Prophetic activation:

Turn your heart and thoughts to Father God and imagine you are in the throne room with Father God, within reach of Him – maybe even sitting on His knee. Ask Him:

  • Father God, what do I need to know about how You made me, my different giftings, and how I best receive from You?
  • Father God, what do I need to know about seeing in the Spirit and what You are doing in the spiritual realm?

Time Stamps:

[1:16] – Gary & Jane share briefly how they have heard God this week.

[8:14] – First Principle – Hearing from God through our natural sight.

[10:55] – Second Principle – Hearing from God through our spiritual sight.

[12:33] – Three types of prophetic visions.

[14:10] – It’s important to see the ‘good’ stuff from God, not focusing on the demonic.

[15:25] – Tips for parenting children seeing the supernatural.

[19:34] – Third Principle – We can grow and develop our ability to see in the Spirit.

[20:16] – Eight steps to grow your spiritual sight.

[24:00] – Recap the principles.

[24:32] – Prophetic activation.

[25:39] – Gary & Jane both share a prophetic word for a listener.

[27:13] – Gary prays for you.

Resources / Links Mentioned:

Bible Verses Mentioned:

  • Exodus 3:1-6
  • Acts 2:17
  • Acts 10:3-4, 9-17
  • Acts 7:55-56
  • 2 Kings 6:13-17
  • Acts 12
  • Habakkuk 2:1-2
  • Hebrews 11
  • John 16:13
  • Ephesians 3:20

Connect with Gary & Jane:

Support the show:

  • Share this podcast with someone who would value hearing from God.
  • Subscribe 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 29 Hearing God through Our Feelings

Episode 29 Hearing God through Our Feelings

Episode Description:

Have you ever walked into a room and your emotions have immediately changed negatively? Depending on your location, do you experience distinct shifts in your thoughts, emotions, or dreams? Do you hear God through your feelings? Join Gary & Jane as they share personal examples to help you understand how you can hear God through your feelings. They explain that character, maturity, and wisdom are needed to discern accurately where those feelings come from. They also discuss what a highly sensitive person is and share examples and resources to help unpack this area.

Episode Notes:

First Principle: Recognise what is of you and God and what is not.
  • Is something external in the atmosphere impacting you?
  • Great questions to ask if you are unsure if something external is impacting you.
  • You are your mind’s gatekeeper. You have a responsibility to discern what you allow through and what you dwell on. 2 Corinthians 10:5
  • You can change most spiritual atmospheres through words or praise and worship.
  • Vitally important is our character, wisdom, and reading the Bible.
Second Principle – You can change the atmosphere around you.
  • Personal examples.
  • Dawna DeSilva from Bethel Church and her teaching on ‘Shifting atmospheres’.
  • Examples from the Bible of Jesus changing atmospheres.
Third Principle –Having a heart of compassion for others like Jesus did.
  • Numerous examples in the Gospels of Jesus displaying compassion.
  • Highly sensitive people – explanation, examples, and the term ‘DOES’.
  • Resources to help in understanding highly sensitive people.

Prophetic activation:

Turn your heart and thoughts to Father God and ask Him:
  • Father God, what do You love about my feelings and how I process information?
  • Father God, what would You like me to know about hearing from You through my feelings?

Time Stamps:

[1:21] – Gary & Jane share briefly how they have heard God this week. [5:19] – First Principle – Recognise what is of you and God and what is not. [8:46] – Great questions to ask if you are unsure if something external is impacting you. [11:26] – Second Principle – You can change the atmosphere around you. [15:58] – Jane’s powerful example with a Vietnam Veteran. [20:25] – Third Principle – Having a heart of compassion for others like Jesus did. [20:57] – Highly Sensitive People [24:16] – Recap the principles. [24:45] – Prophetic activation. [25:54] – Gary & Jane both share a prophetic word for a listener. [27:59] – Gary prays for you.

Resources / Links Mentioned:

Bible Verses Mentioned:

  • 2 Corinthians 10:5
  • Mark 4:37-39
  • Proverbs 18:21
  • Luke 8:41-56

Connect with Gary & Jane:

Support the show:

  • Share this podcast with someone who would value hearing from God.
  • Subscribe 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 28: Hearing God through asking great questions

Episode 28: Hearing God through asking great questions

Episode Description:

Should I marry this person? Which career should I choose? Where should I live? Why does God allow suffering? Why did my friend die? These are all common questions, and God loves you asking questions. A great way to hear God is to ask the right questions. Join Gary & Jane as they share great questions to ask God and unpack how to recognise the answer and wait ‘well’ while waiting for the reply.

Episode Notes:

First Principle: God loves questions.

  • Jesus was asked about 183 questions in the Gospels and only answered about three directly.
  • We are worthy to ask God questions.
  • God wants a relationship with us.
  • God has a lot of thoughts and emotions. E.g. Psalm 139:17-18
  • We need to be able to recognise the answer.
  • Connect with God as a person.
  • A great starting place is the Bible.
  • Can God trust you to keep a secret?

Second Principle – Am I asking the right question? We may need to change the question.

  • Questions around suffering and injustice.
  • The waiting can be frustrating.
  • How we wait is important.
  • Important considerations to wait ‘well’.

Third Principle – Ask open-ended questions, especially with major life decisions.

  • Great questions instead of asking, “God, should I marry this person?”
  • Great questions about where to live?
  • Great questions instead of asking, “Should I accept this job?”
  • Help God put light on issues you haven’t been aware of.

Prophetic activation:

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

  • Father God, how do You see me?
  • Father God, what are You doing in my life at the moment that perhaps I’m not aware of?
  • What would You love to say about the pain in my past?
  • What would You love me to know about my future?
  • What Bible verse do You have for me right now?
  • How can I love someone today?

Time Stamps:

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

[4:03] – First Principle – God loves questions.

[6:33] – We are worthy to ask God questions.

[10:50] – We need to recognise the answer when God replies.

[12:00] – Connect with God as a person. Relationship is important.

[14:27] – Second Principle – We may need to change the question.

[18:10] – How we wait is important.

[20:52] – Third Principle – Ask open-ended questions, especially with major life decisions.

[23:07] – Recap the principles.

[23:45] – Prophetic activation.

[25:11] – Gary & Jane both share a prophetic word for a listener.

[27:31] – Gary prays for you.

Resources / Links Mentioned:

Bible Verses Mentioned:

  • Psalm 27:4
  • Psalm 139:13-18
  • Matthew 7:7-11
  • Psalm 91
  • Luke 1:26-38
  • 2 Peter 3:8
  • 1 Samuel 17:34-37
  • Genesis 22
  • Genesis 12
  • Psalm 34:8
  • Joshua 1:9
  • Isaiah 43:1-2

Connect with Gary & Jane:

Support the show:

  • Share this podcast with someone who would value hearing from God.
  • Subscribe 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 27: Times when we can easily miss hearing God

Episode 27: Times when we can easily miss hearing God

Episode Description:

I wonder how much we miss hearing God because we are not paying attention, life circumstances get in the way, or we are not in a healthy relationship with God. Join Gary & Jane as they share various heart and mind attitudes where we can easily miss hearing God. As always, they share engaging personal examples of times when they have heard God and stepped out in obedience.

Episode Notes:

First Principle: When we are not in a healthy relationship with God.

  • Sin or disobedience in our life.
  • Haven’t obeyed quickly.
  • g. Abraham in Genesis 22
  • Darren Wilson’s ‘Finger of God’ movie and how that impacted Gary.
  • Example of Gary driving 5 hours to stand outside the P.O. because God told him to.
  • Other times e.g. unforgiveness, unbelief in hearing God, not actively listening.
  • Inner vows and prayer to break an inner vow.
  • Contrasted with Samuel in 1 Samuel 3:1-4 re positioning.

Second Principle – Busy or distracted, not paying attention.

  • Mind crowded with life’s worries and distractions.
  • Luke 8:5-15 – seed fell among thorns, choked with life’s worries.
  • I wonder how much we miss hearing God because we are not paying attention.
  • Moses in Exodus 3 – investigated the ‘strange’ sight. He saw something unusual and paid attention.

Third Principle – Life circumstances get in the way.

  • False expectations – expect God to act in a certain way and then get disappointed.
  • Looking for something different so don’t recognise it e.g. 1 Kings 19:11-12
  • Grieving e.g. Disciples on the road to Emmaus and Moses in Numbers 20.
  • Times of celebrating.
  • Focused on wanting a particular answer.
  • Storms in life, e.g. the disciples in Mark 6:30-52 and John 6:1-21.
  • Peaceful times in life when everything is ‘easy’.
  • Immediately after a miracle in the Bible, the people often didn’t recognise God.
  • A call to position ourselves, expect God to speak, and posture our hearts towards God.

Prophetic activation:

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

  • Father God, is there a time when I especially miss hearing You?
  • When is that?
  • What do I need to know about those times?
  • What do I need to change or be aware of?
  • Father God, what would You like me to know about those times?

Time Stamps:

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

[5:31] – First Principle – Not in a healthy relationship with God.

[6:33] – Example of Gary driving 5 hours to obey God.

[11:18] – Other times when our heart may not be right with God.

[14:07] – Second Principle – Busy or distracted.

[17:13] – Third Principle – Life circumstances get in the way.

[21:02] – Recap the principles.

[22:05] – Prophetic activation.

[23:10] – Gary & Jane both share a prophetic word for a listener.

[25:12] – Gary prays for you.

Resources / Links Mentioned:

Bible Verses Mentioned:

  • Numbers 20
  • Numbers 17
  • Genesis 22
  • Genesis 12
  • 1 Samuel 3:1-4
  • Luke 8:5-15
  • Exodus 3
  • 1 Kings 19:11-12
  • Luke 24:13-35
  • Mark 6:30-52
  • John 6:1-21
  • Isaiah 43:19

Connect with Gary & Jane:

Support the show:

  • Share this podcast with someone who would value hearing from God.
  • Subscribe 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 26: Hearing God with Katharine Goschnick

Episode 26: Hearing God with Katharine Goschnick

Episode Description:

Katharine Goschnick is a guest on this episode of the Hearing God Podcast. Katharine has an extensive background in ministering in the prison, schools, and the community. She shares simple but powerful examples of how she hears God and acts on what she hears, as well as how she teaches the many women she disciples to receive from God. Even Katharine’s testimony of how she became a Christian is fascinating. Listen in to Jane and Katharine’s conversation and the numerous examples of how Katharine has heard God in the various facets of her life.

Episode Notes:

  1. Prophetic Intercession
  • Jane learnt prophetic intercession through praying for Katharine’s ministry.
  • If you get a positive thought for someone, let them know.
  • Graham Cooke – “The worst thing you’re going to do is to bless them in the wrong area”.
  • We hear God, but we don’t always recognize it.
  • If we spend time with God and we’re close to Him and at peace, trust your thoughts are from God if they align with Scripture.
  1. Katharine’s journey of becoming a Christian and her growth in this area.
  • Lordship/control of Katharine’s life.
  • Katharine prays for people wanting to become a Christian.
  • Transformation in Katharine’s desire to read.
  • Prophetic journalling and the S.O.A.P. method.
  1. Encouragement
  • Encouragement if tired or burnt out.
  • Encouragement to pray from being seated in High Places with God.
  • Recognize you can hear God, you do hear God, you will hear God.

Prophetic activation:

Turn your heart and thoughts to Father God, reflect on where you are in hearing God, and then draw a line. Ask Father God:

  • What do I need to leave behind?
  • What do I need to trust you for, Father God?
  • What things am I thinking/believing that are not from you, God?
  • Father God, what do you want me to step into?
  • Then step over the line.

Time Stamps:

[0:47] – Jane introduces Katharine Goschnick.

[1:53] – Katharine & Jane share briefly how they have heard God this week.

[8:30] – How Jane learnt prophetic intercession through praying for Katharine’s ministry.

[11:05] – Encouragement to let people know if you have a ‘positive thought’ for them.

[13:23] – Katharine’s experience of becoming a Christian.

[17:51] – Katharine prays for people who want to become a Christian.

[19:19] – Katharine shares the change in her desire for reading.

[20:50] – Anything I hear in my spirit has to line up with the Bible.

[23:37] – Prophetic journalling and the S.O.A.P. method.

[24:56] – Encouragement if you are tired or burnt out.

[28:00] – Examples of hearing God when praying in prison.

[33:36] – Katharine & Jane both share a prophetic word for a listener.

[36:10] – Katharine encourages us to pray being seated with God in the Heavenly Realms.

[38:58] – Prophetic activation.

[41:05] – Katharine prays for you.

Resources / Links Mentioned:

Bible Verses Mentioned:

  • Colossians 1:27
  • Psalm 34:8
  • Exodus 5:1, 8:1, 9:1
  • Matthew 4:1-11
  • Deuteronomy 33:27
  • Matthew 25:1-9
  • Matthew 5:16
  • Psalm 23:2-3
  • Isaiah 61:1-3
  • Proverbs 3:26
  • Ephesians 2:6
  • John 10:27-28

Connect with Gary & Jane:

Support the show:

  • Share this podcast with someone who would value hearing from God.
  • Subscribe 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 25: How Our Personality Can Impact How We Relate to God

Episode 25: How Our Personality Can Impact How We Relate to God

Episode Description:

There is a kaleidoscope of ways we can hear and relate to God. Often, it can depend on how we are ‘wired’ or our personality. This episode of Hearing God unpacks several personality types and how each type may best hear God. How we relate to God and hear from Him may also depend on the season of life we are currently in. Join Gary & Jane as they share various methods you may find helpful in hearing from God and relating to Him.

Episode Notes:

First Principle: God made us unique and wonderful.

  • Psalm 139:13-18
  • Eric Liddell – “I believe God made me for a purpose – but He also made me fast. And when I run, I feel His pleasure.”
  • Different learning styles – e.g. kinesthetic, auditory, visual, writing, logical, intrapersonal, interpersonal, music, etc
  • Different personality types.

Second Principle – Don’t compare yourself with others.

  • Galatians 6:4
  • We change and grow over time.
  • It’s important how we interpret and discern our experiences.

Third Principle – Find your best way of connecting with God, but don’t limit yourself to only that way.

  • View it as a continuum.
  • Ask yourself, “What do I do to feel close to God?”
  • Often a combination of practices.
  • It may depend on the season we currently find ourselves in.
  • Soul Shepherding website – soulshepherding.org
  • Intellectual vs experiential (thinker vs feeler).
  • Structured vs spontaneous.
  • Solitude vs community.

Prophetic activation:

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

  • Father God, what aspect of my personality do you like the most?
  • Father God, why did you create me this way?
  • Father God, what can you tell me about my (temper, procrastination, etc)?

Time Stamps:

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

[5:02] – First Principle – God made us unique and wonderful.

[7:12] – Example of Erice Liddell

[8:56] – Second Principle – Don’t compare yourself to others.

[10:25] – Third Principle – Find your best way of connecting with God.

[12:49] – Intellectual verse experiential.

[16:43] – Structured vs spontaneous.

[20:25] – Solitude vs community.

[24:11] – Prophetic activation.

[25:12] – Gary & Jane both share a prophetic word for a listener.

[27:08] – Gary prays for you.

Resources / Links Mentioned:

Bible Verses Mentioned:

  • Psalm 139:13-18
  • Galatians 6:4

Connect with Gary & Jane:

Support the show:

  • Share this podcast with someone who would value hearing from God.
  • Subscribe 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 24: Hearing God through our Dreams Part 3

Episode 24: Hearing God through our Dreams Part 3

Episode Description:

A large percentage of our communication occurs without words—the same with dreams. Since our dreams are a personal communication from God, the symbols and their interpretation are often unique and personal. In dream interpretation, we need to be careful to chase the dream giver (God) and not the dream. This episode of ‘Hearing God through our Dreams’ is part 3 in a 3-part series on dreams and their interpretations and outlines a quick and easy method to enable you to unpack your dreams. Join Gary & Jane as they share examples from their dreams and the interpretations.

Episode Notes:

  1. Symbols in dreams.
  • Symbols are often personal and unique in our dreams.
  • Use of Dream Dictionaries.
  • Chase the Dream Giver and not the dream.
  1. Meaning of symbols.
  • Biblical meaning – rule of first mention.
  • Personal understanding.
  • Idioms, colloquial language, puns/play on words.
  1. What to do with your dream.
  • Treat it like a prophetic word.
  • Pray for wisdom and revelation.
  • Unpack/interpret it.
  • The Holy Spirit is our tutor. Have a dynamic conversation with God.
  • Test it.
  • Seek wise counsel.
  • Keep the interpretation simple.
  1. Jane’s method – quick.
  • Emotion on waking.
  • Summarize the dream in 30 seconds.
  • What is the main (primary) event, action, and focus?
  • Main characters – at least 90% of the time, it is not about the person in the dream but what that person represents to you.
  • Is there a situation in your life currently that fits with the above ie what else is happening in your life at the moment?
  • Is the dream literal or parabolic/symbolic?
  • List out the main 5-7 points/symbols from the dream.
  • Have you had a similar dream before?
  • Pull everything together to interpret it.
  • Ask the Holy Spirit to confirm and seek wise counsel.
  • Apply the outcome.

Prophetic activation:

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

  • Father God, can you please tell me more about my favourite (something that’s personal for you eg colour, number, object, jumper, etc)?
  • Father God, can you please highlight something about it I have either forgotten or am not aware of?

Time Stamps:

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

[3:28] – Use of symbols in our communication.

[3:47] – Intimacy with God is the goal.

[4:40] – Use of Dream Dictionaries.

[6:39] – Meaning of symbols in dreams.

[9:15] – What to do with your dream.

[9:39] – Chase the Dream Giver.

[12:41] – My method – quick

[13:52] – Dream Questions to help you unpack your dream.

[16:27] – Examples of dreams and their interpretation.

[19:13] – Prophetic activation.

[20:14] – Gary & Jane both share a prophetic word for a listener.

[21:40] – Gary prays for you.

Resources / Links Mentioned:

Bible Verses Mentioned:

  • Jeremiah 1:11-12
  • Genesis 40:8
  • Daniel 1:17
  • John 16:13-15

Connect with Gary & Jane:

Support the show:

  • Share this podcast with someone who would value hearing from God.
  • Subscribe 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 23: Hearing God through Our Dreams Part 2

Episode 23: Hearing God through Our Dreams Part 2

Episode Description:

God has a purpose with our dreams – that of intimacy and an invitation to draw closer to Him. Our dreams can be likened to a treasure hunt of searching out what God is trying to communicate to us through the third of our life we are asleep. This episode of ‘Hearing God through our Dreams’ is part 2 in a 3-part series on dreams and their interpretations and covers the types and purposes of dreams. Join Gary & Jane as they share numerous Biblical examples of different types of dreams as well as a number of dreams with the outworking that has influenced and changed the world.

Episode Notes:

  1. Types / Purposes of Dreams
  • Warning / guidance (a heads up. a caution, a call to intercession).
  • Revelation about our future calling and destiny.
  • Wisdom and insight, ideas for inventions, business plans, strategy from heaven to glorify God.
  • God encounters – with God, His nature, or angels.
  • Reveal secrets
  • Evangelism / Salvation
  • Correction
  1. Modern day dreams / Inventions
  • Some examples are the sewing machine, the creation of Google, books, movies, famous song lyrics, adjustments to sporting style, the arrangement of the periodic table, the theory of relativity, the discovery of both the structure of the atom and DNA, etc.

Prophetic activation:

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

  • Father God, is there a strategy that you would love to download to me now about an issue in my life?
  • Father God, can you please reveal to me more about that strategy.
  • Father God, can you please show me something in my life I need to adjust or tweak.

Time Stamps:

[0:47] – Gary & Jane share briefly how they have heard God this week.

[2:14] – Dreams are a gift from God. Follow on from part 1 in Episode 22.

[2:59] – Some examples of dreams in the Bible.

[3:35] – Types / Purposes of Dreams.

[12:27] – Modern day inventions as a result of a dream.

[17:57] – Prophetic activation.

[19:06] – Gary & Jane both share a prophetic word for a listener.

[20:24] – Gary prays for you.

Resources / Links Mentioned:

Bible Verses Mentioned:

  • Matthew 2:13
  • Daniel 7
  • Job 33:14-18
  • Proverbs 25:2
  • Isaiah 55:11
  • Genesis 41:1-39
  • Genesis 20:3
  • Matthew 27:19
  • Matthew 1:20-23, 2:13,19-20,22
  • Matthew 2:12
  • Genesis 37:5-10
  • Luke 2:19
  • Genesis 40:5-23
  • Judges 7:13-15
  • Genesis 31:10-13
  • Genesis 28:11-22
  • Daniel 2:29
  • 1 Samuel 28:6
  • Acts 10:9-23

Connect with Gary & Jane:

Support the show:

  • Share this podcast with someone who would value hearing from God.
  • Subscribe 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 22: Hearing God through our Dreams Part 1

Episode 22: Hearing God through our Dreams Part 1

Episode Description:

Dreams are a gift from God. As with any gift, it is useless if we don’t unpack it. The Talmud says a dream that is not interpreted is like a letter that is not read. We roughly spend a third of our life asleep – why not make use of it by receiving from God, as dreams are the purest form of a prophetic word you will ever receive. Join Gary & Jane as they begin to unpack the difference between dreams, visions, and nightmares, address night terrors in children, and inspire you to begin to record your dreams. Jane shares how nightmares often reveal your identity and expose the enemy’s plans. This episode is part 1 of a 3-part series on dreams and their interpretations.

Episode Notes:

Dreams are a gift from God.

  • Dreams are an invitation from God to draw closer to Him and to come to know Him at a greater level. Dreams open up the mysteries of God.
  • Our spirit is awake as we sleep. Song of Songs 5:2 “I was asleep but my heart was awake.”
  • It bypasses our minds to get our attention and bring things to the forefront.
  • Dreams are the purest form of a prophetic word you will ever receive.
  • The word for ‘dream’ in ancient Hebrew is chalowm. Unpacking the four meanings of that word gives a fuller understanding of the word ‘dream’ – the mystery hidden from you is being brought to you and revealed.
  • Proverbs 25:2 When God hides something in a dream, it is an invitation into a conversation to search out and to find out more, to go on a journey with God.

God uses dreams for evangelistic purposes.

  • God speaks through dreams to those who don’t know Him as Lord, such as King Nebuchadnezzar in the Bible in Daniel 2:28.
  • Over 4/5 of Muslims have never met a Christian. Thus, God needs to get their attention somehow. Many dream of a man in white (Jesus) and become a Christian through meeting Jesus in their dreams.

Difference between dreams, visions, and nightmares.

  • A dream refers to the events or series of thoughts and images seen in our mind whilst asleep.
  • The Bible also talks about visions – Peter was awake and praying and saw a vision/trance of the unclean food (Acts 10:9-23). John was awake for his vision recorded in Revelation (Revelation 1:9-20).
  • A nightmare occurs when the enemy tries to shut down communication between God and us. The enemy comes to kill, steal, and destroy (John 10:10). The enemy fears us stepping into our identity and calling. There’s a calling on our life that scares the enemy, and he will come while our defences are down – or when we are asleep.
  • Nightmares are a lie from the enemy, a lie that we end up believing about ourselves. Thus, we need to redeem that which the enemy is trying to rob from us.
  • Often reveals the strategy of the kingdom of darkness, exposing the enemy’s plans.
  • It usually highlights a truth about our authority in God.
  • Nightmares can be common in children and reveal generational strongholds that must be dealt with to bring freedom. If a door opens, fear will enter and usher in shame, guilt, and condemnation. A nightmare is a heads-up, a warning, a caution. Nightmares are always redemptive. Psalm 24:1
  • The enemy is counterfeit. Counterfeit to be like God. Usually chaotic if from the enemy as God is a God of order and not chaos.
  • Praying Medic says: “The enemy shows us things of darkness in order to draw us into them as a participant, while God reveals darkness to help us defeat it….. God has a redemptive purpose in all He does…..” (Praying Medic, Seeing in the Spirit Made Simple (2015))
  • Don’t focus on what the devil is doing/saying – prophesy to the devil. Switch it. Faith trumps fear. If he comes in this way, stand and declare in your authority.
  • James 4:7 “Resist the devil and he will flee from you.”
  • Night terrors – kids’ brains are trying to process stuff they’ve witnessed, usually on television. It is quite common when the television goes all day in the background. When tsunamis, floods, bushfires etc, kids see the news flashes.
  • Dreams reveal things about ourselves, God’s plans, the enemy’s plans for our lives, and they can also be processing past events or unresolved issues that we may well have ‘brushed’ over and felt that the event no longer impacts us. In His wisdom, God knows far greater, and sometimes that may be the only way we will start to process the past hurt or situation.

The source of dreams:

  • Demonic – often an invitation to intercession or revelation on overcoming the enemy.
  • God – often related to our calling/destiny or containing divine strategy or ideas.
  • Self – processing life or the day’s events. Often, dreams can pinpoint an issue that’s currently in our life but hasn’t risen to the surface yet or something that we’ve been asking questions about but haven’t found a solution to. God can still speak through these.
  • Look at the fruit to discern the source.

Preparing for a Dream:

  • Limit alcohol, drugs/chemicals and prescription drugs (eg sleeping tablets). The more alert your brain is, the clearer you can hear and see from God.
  • Be careful what you watch and read before bed. If you fill your mind with scary movies or stories before sleep, then expect that that may influence your thoughts while asleep.
  • Sleeping atmosphere – quiet, relaxing, peaceful environment contributes to calmer sleep, thoughts, and hearing from God while asleep.
  • Have a recording device (or journal & pen) by your bed to document your dream.
  • Look at your attitude towards dreams. Be intentional and expectant. Show God that you want to hear from Him during your sleep. Confess any inner vow you have made about not wanting any dreams.

Prophetic activation:

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

  • Father God, is there a dream I’ve had in the past that I’ve ignored or brushed over where you were trying to tell me something? Can you please remind me of that dream?
  • Father God, please show me what I need to know about dreams and my attitude towards them?

Time Stamps:

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

[2:44] – Dreams are a gift from God.

[5:01] – Preparation for dreaming.

[8:04] – Dreams bypass our minds to get our attention.

[9:35] – The meaning of the word ‘dream’.

[11:18] – God uses dreams as a method of evangelism.

[12:37] – The difference between dreams, visions, and nightmares.

[17:39] – Examples of redeeming nightmares.

[18:59] – Jane addresses night terrors.

[21:10] – The sources of dreams.

[22:24] – Encouragement to look at the ‘fruit’ of the dream if unsure of the source.

[23:02] – Preparation for a dream (expanded)

[24:00] – Prayer for those who have ‘shut’ down their dream life because of fear.

[25:06] – Prophetic activation.

[26:60] – Gary & Jane both share a prophetic word for a listener.

[27:23] – Gary prays for you.

Resources / Links Mentioned:

Bible Verses Mentioned:

  • Song of Songs 5:2
  • Proverbs 25:2
  • Daniel 2:28
  • Joel 2:28
  • Acts 2:17
  • Acts 10:9-23
  • Revelation 1:9-20
  • John 10:10
  • Psalm 24:1
  • James 4:7
  • 1 John 1:9
  • Ephesians 6:10-18
  • Galatians 5:22-23
  • Galatians 6:7-9

Connect with Gary & Jane:

Support the show:

  • Share this podcast with someone who would value hearing from God.
  • Subscribe 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 21: Hearing God when God is silent

Episode 21: Hearing God when God is silent

 

Episode Description:

Are you in a place where God is silent or appears silent? Join Gary & Jane as they unpack this topic and explore why it may appear that God is silent. They touch on numerous reasons why we may feel God is silent and not recognize God communicating with us. Throughout this episode, Gary & Jane encourage you to be honest with God and to turn your heart to Him. They emphasize that, above all, God desires a relationship with you.

Episode Notes:

First Principle: Be honest.

  • Be honest with God.
  • The problem is always on our end, not with God. He hasn’t moved.
  • Usually, we think God is silent when things haven’t worked out like we thought they should.
  • God is not a vending machine. We want a roadmap that explains everything.
  • God wants a relationship. It doesn’t require faith if God tells me exactly everything to do.
  • God’s character doesn’t change because we’ve experienced loss. In his sermon several days after his wife died of cancer, Bill Johnson said, “God doesn’t owe us an explanation”.
  • Don’t critique God.
  • Lean into Him.
  • Not the time to pull away.
  • Desert experience. Ask, ‘What are my current circumstances? – valley of dry bones, grief, trauma, disappointment with God.
  • Journal your pain, but don’t camp there. Journal also your miracles so you can remind yourself. You are responsible for the seeds you plant in your heart.
  • Don’t allow the enemy to fester disappointment and bitterness.
  • Those times invite us to grow and explore, to change our position and posture.
  • Be honest with a trusted person.

Second Principle: Go back to the last time you heard God.

  • What did He say?
  • Have you obeyed Him?
  • What’s happened in your life since?
  • Have you moved from God or have an issue with Him?
  • Am I offended by God?
  • Am I disappointed with God?
  • On the road to Emmaus in Luke 24:13-32 – the two disciples were walking along when Jesus came alongside them, and they didn’t recognize Him. Perhaps you are not recognizing God amid what you are going through.
  • May need to repent of unconfessed sin.
  • Don’t judge God by what He didn’t do.
  • Look at your theology. Do you believe God is always good?
  • In 1 Samuel 13:14, we see David is called a man after God’s own heart, but in Psalm 22:1-2, David writes, “My God, my God, why have you forsaken me? Why are you so far from saving me, so far from my cries of anguish? My God, I cry out by day, but you do not answer, by night, but I find no rest.”
  • Psalms always end up worshipping and praising God apart from 2 Psalms, one being Psalm 88.
  • Psalm 13:1-2 – lamentation “How long, Lord? Will you forget me forever?How long will you hide your face from me? How long must I wrestle with my thoughts and day after day have sorrow in my heart? How long will my enemy triumph over me?”
  • Has God already answered you, but you haven’t recognized it? Isaiah 59:2 “But your iniquities have separated you from your God, your sins have hidden his face from you, so that he will not hear.”
  • Psalm 66:18 “If I had cherished sin in my heart, the Lord would not have listened;”
  • Wrong motives: James 4:3 “When you ask, you do not receive, because you ask with wrong motives, that you may spend what you get on your pleasures.”
  • The answer may still be coming: Daniel 10 – fasted for two weeks until heard God.
  • Grow faith and dependence – Luke 18:1-7 the parable of the persistent widow.
  • Am I quiet enough to hear the whisper (1 Kings 19:12)?
  • May be looking for a different answer or way of receiving.

Third Principle: Is God wanting to use my situation to increase my trust?

  • Remember His faithfulness.
  • Importance of memory stones – In Joshua 4:1-18, God told Joshua to get 12 memory stones after crossing the Jordan River.
  • When God appears silent, it doesn’t mean He is unresponsive.
  • Fight the good fight. John 16:33
  • Look at your theology, your beliefs about God.
  • We live life. Life has pain. Philippians 4:4-7. We wouldn’t be given those instructions if life was easy.
  • Invitation to grow and explore with God.
  • Keep showing up. Keep reading the Bible. Keep the lines of communication open.
  • Psalm 37:4
  • Deuteronomy 31:6
  • 1 Kings 18:43-44
  • It may be a time of being patient and trusting God is working behind the scenes.

Fourth Principle: Silence can be a sign of intimacy.

  • Oswald Chambers (an early 20th Century Scottish evangelist and teacher) wrote in “My Utmost for His Highest” – “When you cannot hear God, you will find that He has trusted you in the most intimate way possible with absolute silence, not a silence of despair, but one of pleasure, because He saw that you could withstand an even bigger revelation.”
  • God is near in the silence.
  • James 4: 8 “Draw near to God and He will draw near to you.”
  • Trust God for His Presence despite how I feel.

Prophetic activation:

Sit quietly before God for about 10 minutes.

  • Start with an awareness of your surroundings and acknowledge the sounds.
  • Invite God to come and sit with you.
  • Delight in being with God.
  • Ask, “Lord, what would you love to say to me?”

Time Stamps:

[0:47] – Gary & Jane share briefly how they have heard God this week.

[3:14] – First Principle – Be honest.

[7:56] – Jane encourages listeners to journal and have ‘memory stones’ (Joshua 4).

[9:18] – Gary explains a ‘prophetic act’ may be appropriate.

[9:41] – Second Principle – Go back to the last time you heard God.

[10:25] – Don’t judge God by what He didn’t do.

[11:16] – Jane shares why Psalms can be helpful to read.

[13:16] – Am I looking for a different answer?

[15:44] – Third Principle – Is God wanting to use my situation to increase my trust?

[17:19] – Jane encourages you to keep the lines of communication open with God.

[19:42] – Fourth Principle – Silence can be a sign of intimacy.

[21:16] – Prophetic activation.

[22:35] – Gary & Jane both share a prophetic word for a listener.

[24:36] – Gary prays for you.

 

Resources / Links Mentioned:

Bible Verses Mentioned:

  • Joshua 4:1-18
  • 1 Samuel 13:14
  • Psalm 22:1-2
  • Psalm 88
  • Psalm 46:10
  • Psalm 13:1-2
  • Isaiah 59:2
  • Psalm 66:18
  • James 4:3
  • Daniel 10
  • Luke 18:1-7
  • 1 Kings 19:11-12
  • Philippians 4:4-7
  • John 16:33
  • Psalm 37:4
  • Deuteronomy 31:6
  • 1 Kings 18:16-46
  • James 4:8
  • Isaiah 43:19
  • Luke 24:13-32 (the disciples didn’t recognize Jesus)

Connect with Gary & Jane:

Support the show:

  • Share this podcast with someone who would value hearing from God.
  • Subscribe 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 20: Making Time to Hear God.

Episode 20: Making Time to Hear God.

Episode Description:

Do you ever become so busy you ‘forget’ God? Are there times when you are so focused that God doesn’t get a thought? Do you tend to plan and then ask God to bless your plans rather than listen to God’s thoughts first? Join Gary & Jane as they unpack this topic. Hear numerous personal examples of how they intentionally make time to listen to God. Gary & Jane also share how they meditate on God by practising ‘stilling’ their thoughts.

Episode Notes:

First Principle: Be intentional

  • Sometimes a barrier to hearing God may be that we don’t make time to hear God.
  • Still my heart Psalm 46:10 “Be still and know that I am God” but the whole chapter is about the almighty God and His power and strength and being able to be still and trust God despite our circumstances.
  • Sometimes I am so focused I don’t think about God and what He would like.
  • Sometimes I forget to ask God. So I need to train my mind. Hourly prompts.

Second Principle: Be careful not to go overboard.

  • So heavenly minded we are no earthly good.
  • Have friends who ask God absolutely everything.
  • Be careful of decision overload.
  • If something comes to my attention, giving God the credit.
  • Capture every thought – 2 Corinthians 10:5, Romans 12:2.

Third Principle: Practice ‘stilling’ your thoughts and focussing on God.

  • We all have 168 hours in week. 10,080 minutes. Important how we use them.
  • Dreams – spend 1/3 of our life in bed.
  • Soaking / meditating / stilling our thoughts.
  • Pray at beginning to silence any other voices.

Prophetic activation:

Turn heart and thoughts to Father God and ask Him:

  • Father God, what would you like to tell me about how I manage my time?
  • What would you love me to know?
  • What would you love me to stop doing? Start doing?  Change?
  • Holy Spirit, what are you praying for me regarding this?

Time Stamps:

[0:35] – Gary & Jane share briefly how they have heard God this week.

[4:17] – First Principle – Be intentional.

[5:48] – Jane shares practical ways she is intentional.

[7:09] – Gary shares a practical example of how he is intentional.

[8:48] – Second Principle – Be careful not to go overboard.

[11:37] – Third Principle – Practice ‘stilling’ your thoughts and focusing on God.

[14:28] – Jane explains how she meditates/soaks/practices stilling her thoughts.

[17:46] – Gary & Jane share more practical examples of intentionally listening to God.

[20:11] – Prophetic activation.

[21:09] – Gary & Jane both share a prophetic word for a listener.

[24:40] – Gary prays for you.

[25:28] – Jane explains about the survey at https://garyandjane.co/survey

Resources / Links Mentioned:

Bible Verses Mentioned:

  • 2 Corinthians 10:5
  • Psalm 46:10
  • Romans 12:2
  • Matthew 28:18
  • John 14:12
  • Luke 10:19-20
  • 1 Samuel 12:16

Connect with Gary & Jane:

Support the show:

  • Share this podcast with someone who would value hearing from God.
  • Subscribe 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 19: What if I’m scared to hear God as I might not like what He says?

Episode 19: What if I’m scared to hear God as I might not like what He says?

Episode Description:

Have you ever not wanted to hear God or been unsure about hearing God because you didn’t know what He would say? Have you ever thought that God may ‘nail’ you on something, so you didn’t want to hear God? Do you think God may ask you to do something you don’t want to do? Join Gary & Jane as they unpack this topic using Jonah from the Bible as an example. Dealing quickly with disappointment and unforgiveness is encouraged so bitterness doesn’t develop. In this episode, Gary & Jane encourage listeners not to live paralyzed by fear but to take the next step of adventure with God.

Episode Notes:

First Principle: Our view of God and His character

  • God is a loving God who wants an intimate relationship with us.
  • God is not wielding a stick and wanting to punish us.
  • God sees the BIG picture.
  • A classic story from the Bible is Jonah.
  • A reminder to deal with unforgiveness and bitterness we may have towards God.
  • Hebrews 5:13-14. We need to become mature and get into solid food.
  • Our character and how we respond when we don’t like what God says are important.

Second Principle: Am I afraid God will nail me of sin in my life?

  • Jonah 4:2 “I knew that you are a gracious and compassionate God, slow to anger and abounding in love, a God who relents from sending calamity.
  • We are all on a growth journey.
  • Secrets bring shame – we need to expose them to the light.
  • 2 Timothy 1:7 “For God didn’t give us a spirit of fear, but power, love and sound mind.”

Third Principle: Past experiences may determine my attitude.

  • Was it actually God I heard?
  • Is it my perception?
  • If fearful of what God may say is holding you back, it is worth looking into and having prayer ministry to remove misconceptions, barriers, etc.
  • Joni Eareckson Tada’s definition of faith – “Great faith isn’t the ability to believe long and far into the misty future. It’s simply taking God at His word and taking the next step.”
  • Don’t be paralyzed into not taking the next step of adventure with God.
  • Some reasons why Christians don’t obey God quickly or are scared of what God may ask them to do.
  • Evan Roberts, instrumental in the Welsh Revival in 1904-1905 emphasized immediate obedience to God. He would say that when we delay, we allow our mind to question everything, and we can expect something different.

Important Principles: How can I obey God immediately?

  • Know God and His thoughts for me through intimacy with Him. Spend time with Him, read the Bible, confess sin, etc.
  • Purpose in my heart to immediately obey God.
  • Take the first step. Don’t dally.
  • Surround myself with people of great faith.
  • Receive wise, godly counsel.

Prophetic activation:

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

  • Is there an area of my life that I have not obeyed you in yet?
  • God, what do you want me to do about that?

Time Stamps:

[0:55] – Gary & Jane share briefly how they have heard God this week.

[4:18] – First Principle – View of God and His character

[4:53] – Jane starts unpacking the story of Jonah.

[7:24] – A reminder to deal quickly with unforgiveness and disappointment.

[8:47] – Second Principle – Am I afraid God will nail me of sin in my life?

[10:18] – Secrets bring shame and need to be exposed to the light. Prayer for listeners.

[11:55] – Third Principle – Past experiences may determine my attitude.

[13:12] – Is it my perception?

[17:43] – Reasons we may not obey God.

[21:27] – How we can obey God immediately.

[23:24] – Prophetic activation.

[24:14] – Gary & Jane both share a prophetic word for a listener.

[25:54] – Gary prays for you.

[26:40] – Jane explains about the survey at https://garyandjane.co/survey

 

Resources / Links Mentioned:

Bible Verses Mentioned:

  • Jonah
  • Hebrews 5:13-14
  • Jonah 4:2
  • 2 Timothy 1:7
  • 2 Corinthians 6:14 – don’t be yoked together with unbelievers
  • Matthew 14:22-33
  • Hebrews 11, especially verse 1
  • 1 Corinthians 2:14

Connect with Gary & Jane:

Support the show:

  • Share this podcast with someone who would value hearing from God.
  • Subscribe 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 18: Am I hearing God or is it just me?

Episode 18: Am I hearing God or is it just me?

Episode Description:

Have you ever thought, “Was that God or was it just me?” Often, we can doubt that we hear God because He may sound like our own thoughts or we are unsure what He does sound like. Join Gary and Jane as they unpack this question in this episode of Hearing God. As usual, they share ‘gems’ and examples from the Bible and their own lives. A fantastic question to ask when unsure is, “What happens if it is me and it isn’t God?”.

Episode Notes:

First Principle: Intimacy with God.

  • We need to know God and what He sounds like.
  • The Disciples were with Jesus 24/7 and still didn’t recognise Jesus after He rose again.
  • John 15:26 Jesus said that after He went to Heaven, the Holy Spirit would come as our comforter, advocate, and continue the communication.
  • Misconception of what God sounds like – the fruit of the Spirit Galatians 5:22-23
  • When I go, “I wouldn’t normally think that”, it’s usually from God.

Second Principle: Capture your thoughts,

  • God speaks spirit to our spirit but also to our soul, our mind. So God can often sound like our own voice.
  • 2 Corinthians 10:5 “We take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ.”
  • We need to take charge of our thought life.

Third Principle: Do I have an incorrect theology?

  • Unbelief – don’t believe that God would be interested in us or what He would say about us. This can tie in with our self-worth – do we feel worthy and valued by God, that He would want to talk with me?
  • Disbelief – look to false news/culture/what friends say.
  • Fearful of the outcome if I followed through and it wasn’t God. Lack of trust in God, His goodness, and His Power.
  • Sometimes, we can want God to answer in a different way.
  • What have we got to lose if it is a good outcome?

Prophetic activation:

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

  • Father God, where are you in relation to me right now?
  • (Is He beside me, in front of me, behind me, across the room, can’t see him?)
  • Father God, what do I need to know about this?
  • For a few moments, change your focus to your earthly father.
  • Father God, I forgive my earthly father for being distant, for not hugging and giving me physical comfort, for making me feel seen and not heard, for ….
  • Father God, I am sorry for believing you would be the same and I repent of that and I ask you Father God to forgive me for believing that you wouldn’t ….
  • Father God, what would you love to show, tell, or give me now?

Time Stamps:

[0:55] – Gary & Jane share briefly how they have heard God this week.

[4:14] – First Principle – Intimacy.

[5:18] – Need to know what God’s voice sounds like.

[6:26] – When I wouldn’t usually think that, I know it’s from God.

[11:29] – Second Principle – Capture your thoughts.

[12:39] – God speaks to our spirit and soul, thus He can sound like our own voice.

[15:33] – Third Principle – Do I have an incorrect theology?

[17:26] – What happens if it was me and it wasn’t God?

[19:12] – Prophetic activation.

[21:29] – Gary & Jane both share a prophetic word for a listener.

[22:59] – Gary prays for you.

[23:47] – Jane explains about the survey at https://garyandjane.co/survey

 

Resources / Links Mentioned:

Bible Verses Mentioned:

  • John 15:26
  • 1 Kings 19:1-12
  • Galatians 5:22-23
  • Philippians 4:7
  • Jeremiah 29:11
  • Judges 4:17-21
  • John 10:14
  • 2 Corinthians 10:5
  • 1 Corinthians 13:9
  • Daniel 5

Connect with Gary & Jane:

Support the show:

  • Share this podcast with someone who would value hearing from God.
  • Subscribe 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 17: When I thought I heard God, but it didn’t come true

Episode 17: When I thought I heard God, but it didn’t come true

Episode Description:

Have you ever felt God said something to you, but it didn’t come true? Did you believe God said you would get a certain amount when selling your house, but you had to settle for less? Did the person you felt God say to marry, end up divorcing you? In this episode of Hearing God, Gary and Jane unpack this important topic of ‘when I thought I heard God, but it didn’t come true’. They use examples from the Bible, stories from their own lives, and examples from friends. They also share vital principles to keep in mind when making life decisions.

Episode Notes:

First Principle: What did you ask God, and what did God say

  • Unpack what God really did say.
  • My memory tends to adjust things over time, so I find it helpful to write down what I feel God is saying, especially if it is a big thing.
  • What do the wise people in your life say?
  • What does Scripture say – usually quiet on specifics of which person to marry, job,
  • What are the motives behind what you did?
  • Am I asking God the right question?

Second Principle: Timing

  • A classic Bible example is that Abraham and Sarah said they would have children.
  • Do we short-change God working a miracle, or do we get impatient?
  • Do we act now, but what we hear from God is for later?

Third Principle: What’s your faith quotient?

  • Look at what is influencing my decision – is it someone manipulating me or standing to gain from me doing a certain thing, or are my desires overpowering God’s voice?
  • What’s the real motive behind your decision or action?
  • Sense of peace. Philippians 4:7 “And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”

Important Principles:

Don’t make big life decisions or act on just one way of receiving from God.

Caution to not elevate hearing the voice of God above the Bible.

Important questions to ask include:

  • What does the Bible say?
  • Does it line up with the character of God?
  • What do the wise, discerning, and trusted people in my life say?
  • What do I believe I heard God say?
  • Do I have an internal sense of peace?

Prophetic activation:

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

  • Lord, has there been a time in my life when I have short-changed you or a miracle by acting too quickly?
  • What do I need to know about that?
  • What else would you like to share with me?
  • Is there anything you would love me to do in response?

Time Stamps:

[0:50] – Gary & Jane share briefly how they have heard God this week.

[4:35] – First Principle – What did you ask God, and what did God say?

[4:56] – Jane shares a time when she remembered incorrectly.

[7:19] – Am I asking God the right question?

[8:49] – Second Principle – God’s timing may differ from ours.

10:18] – Do we short-change God working in our life and give up waiting for a miracle?

[11:35] – God can take a long time to act quickly.

[12:01] – Third Principle – What’s your faith quotient?

[13:41] – Gary & Jane share how they practice hearing God with finances.

[15:24] – Important Principles.

[16:39] – Caution not to elevate hearing the voice of God above the Bible.

[17:57] – Jane shares about ‘2 Pairs Each’.

[19:32] – Jane shares about the finances for the trip to Mozambique.

[23:27] – Prophetic activation.

[24:44] – Gary & Jane both share a prophetic word for a listener.

[28:27] – Gary prays for you.

[29:15] – Jane explains about the survey at https://garyandjane.co/survey

 

Resources / Links Mentioned:

Bible Verses Mentioned:

  • 1 Corinthians 2:16
  • Genesis 15-19
  • Philippians 4:7
  • Ephesians 3:20

Connect with Gary & Jane:

 

Support the show:

  • Share this podcast with someone who would value hearing from God.
  • Subscribe 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 16: How else can God talk to me?

Episode 16: How else can God talk to me?

 

Episode Description:

This episode of Hearing God expands upon the various ways God communicates with us, as explained in Episode 4. Gary & Jane unpack this topic, encouraging you to read the Bible and never underestimate God and what He can and will do. They share numerous Bible stories and practical examples of how God has supernaturally communicated with them.

Episode Notes:

First Principle: There are no formulas with God.

  • When we think we have worked out God, He smashes all formulas.
  • God prioritises relationship with us over rules.
  • Don’t disregard God communicating with you if it’s not the usual way you receive from God.

Second Principle: Various ways God can communicate with us.

  • Remember – God is outside of time, what we can think etc, so if God wants to do something new, He will.
  • The Bible
    • 2 Timothy 3:16 – all Scripture is God-inspired
    • Psalm 119:105 Your word is a lamp for my feet and a light for my path.
    • Hebrews 4:12 The word of God is alive and active.
    • Romans 15:4 – Bible written to teach us, encourage us and give us hope.
    • Sounds like a prophetic word from 1 Cor 14:3
  • Supernatural manifestations
    • Moses & burning bush Exodus 3:1-4
    • Fleece – Judges 6:37-40 – Gideon didn’t trust God and still needed a fleece even after a powerful encounter with an angel.
    • Soul blinded by a light flashed from heaven, then sight restored in Acts 9:1-19
    • Balaam and the donkey in Numbers 22:1-35
    • Daniel 5:5 fingers of a human hand appeared and wrote on the wall plaster.
    • Acts 5:1-10 Ananias & Sapphira struck dead after lying.
    • Often say to God, you have done it before, you can do it again.
  • Character of God
  • Co-incidences or God-incidences
  • Dreams, visions, mystical sense eg angels
  • Nature
  • Music and lyrics
  • Signs, numbers, colours
  • Smells
  • Miracles
  • Supernatural manifestations of weather
    • John 12:27-30 – God speaking to Jesus after Jesus was predicting his death. Some thought an angel had spoken from heaven; others heard thunder. What is your ear inclined to?
    • John 14:12 – Whoever believes in me will do the works I have been doing and even greater works than these.
  • Other people
  • Wise advice eg people or books
  • Holy Spirit – John 14:26 – Jesus said the advocate would come and teach us all things.

Important Principles:

  • God can do and will do whatever He wants.
  • Don’t underestimate God. Don’t box God in with your preconceived ideas.
  • Be open to God speaking to you however He wishes.

 

Prophetic Activation:

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

  • If I were a food, what would I be and why?
  • What would I taste like, the colour, texture, smell, how you eat it, things it pairs with etc.
  • Don’t forget to ask God why that particular food.

 

Time Stamps:

[2:18] – Gary & Jane share briefly how they have heard God this week.

[4:30] – First Principle – there are no formulas with God.

[5:27] – Example of daughter hearing from God.

[6:46] – Gary shares what he would say to someone unsure if they heard God.

[7:53] – Second Principle – God speaks in various ways in the Bible.

[8:08] – How the Bible describes itself.

[9:06] – Bible stories of supernatural manifestations.

[10:17] – Encouragement from Jane to mature, grow up, and trust God.

[16:09] – Other ways God can speak.

[16:34] – Supernatural manifestations of weather.

[21:14] – Important Principles.

[21:41] – Prophetic activation.

[22:27] – Gary & Jane both share a prophetic word for a listener.

[24:32] – Gary prays for you.

 

Resources / Links Mentioned:

 

Bible Verses Mentioned:

  • Judges 4:16-22
  • 2 Timothy 3:16
  • Psalm 119:105
  • Hebrews 4:12
  • Romans 15:4
  • Psalm 32:8
  • 1 Corinthians 14:3
  • Exodus 3:1-4
  • Exodus 14
  • Judges 6:37-40
  • Acts 9:1-19
  • Numbers 22:1-35
  • Joshua 10
  • Acts 5:19
  • Acts 12:3-19
  • Daniel 5:5
  • Acts 5:1-10
  • John 12:27-30
  • John 14:12
  • John 14:26

 

Connect with Gary & Jane:

 

Support the show:

  • Share this podcast with someone who would value hearing from God.
  • Subscribe 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.