The Necessity of Recognizing the Voice of God – Part 2

Date: November 16, 2025

Messenger: Bishop Joseph J. Norfleet

Message Title: The Necessity of Recognizing the Voice of God – Part 2

Key Scriptures: 1 Samuel 3:1–14; Joshua 1:3; Proverbs 3:9–10; Exodus 20:12; 2 Kings 2 (selected verses)

Message Overview

Today’s message emphasized how essential it is for believers to recognize God’s voice in these challenging days. Bishop Norfleet reminded us that God still speaks clearly, personally, and purposefully, but His people must be spiritually awake and willing to listen. Through the story of Samuel and modern examples, we were urged to grow in maturity, discernment, and relationship with the Lord so that we can respond faithfully when He speaks. This message called each hearer to walk in obedience, honor spiritual guidance, and remain sensitive to the Holy Spirit’s leading.

Key Points

God Desires His People to Hear and Respond

Supporting Scripture: 1 Samuel 3:1–10

Samuel’s early encounters with God showed that the Lord speaks even when His people are spiritually dull or distracted. Samuel didn’t yet know the Lord’s voice, but God patiently called again and again.

Takeaway: God is speaking, and He wants you to develop a heart that listens and responds quickly.

We Must Not Become Familiar or Casual With God’s Word

Supporting Scripture: 1 Samuel 3:1

The word of the Lord was scarce in Eli’s day because spiritual leaders had become complacent. Familiarity made their hearing dim.

Takeaway: Treat God’s word as precious. Keep your heart tender so that you never drift from His guidance.

Recognizing God’s Voice Requires Spiritual Maturity

Supporting Scripture: Hebrews 5:14; 1 Samuel 3:7

Samuel mistook God’s voice for Eli’s until he grew under spiritual mentorship. Maturity helps us distinguish God’s leading from our own thoughts or outside influences.

Takeaway: Growth takes time. Stay teachable, consistent, and committed to developing spiritually.

Discernment Is Formed Through Relationship

Supporting Scripture: John 10:27

God speaks to the heart, not the head. Relationship helps us sense His impressions, nudges, and warnings.

Takeaway: Daily fellowship with God tunes your ears to His tone, timing, and direction.

God Often Speaks Through Spiritual Mentors

Supporting Scriptures: 2 Kings 2; Exodus 20:12

Like Eli guiding Samuel and Elijah guiding Elisha, God uses spiritual leaders to help His people recognize His voice. Honoring those He places in our lives brings blessing and protection.

Takeaway: Value the voice of spiritual leadership. Honor unlocks growth.

Disobedience to God's Promptings Has Consequences

Supporting Scripture: 1 Samuel 3:11–14

Eli’s house suffered judgment because he knew what was wrong yet refused to act. God gives warnings, opportunities, and mercy, but He also expects obedience.

Takeaway: When God speaks, respond quickly. Delayed obedience always costs something.

God Will Go to Great Lengths to Reach You

Supporting Scripture: Psalm 139:7–10

The parable of the 3:17 a.m. call showed how God impresses His people to intervene. He speaks to protect, rescue, and save those in danger.

Takeaway: Someone is depending on your obedience. Your sensitivity to God may save a life.

Honor and Submission Prepare You for Promotion

Supporting Scripture: Proverbs 3:9–10; Joshua 1:3

Growth requires humility. Just as Elisha stayed faithful to Elijah through every stage from Gilgal to Jordan, God promotes those who honor the process and the people He places in their lives.

Takeaway: Promotion comes when you stay faithful, submitted, and willing to follow God’s leading.

Scripture References

1 Samuel 3:1–14

Joshua 1:3

Proverbs 3:9–10

Exodus 20:12

2 Kings 2

John 10:27

Hebrews 5:14

Psalm 139:7–10

Notable Quotes

• “God is speaking and calling you to respond. You are that Samuel.”

• “If you know the authentic, you don’t have to worry about the fake.”

• “Someone is depending on you to recognize the voice of God.”

• “Playtime is over. These are the days when you must be spiritually alert.”

• “God becomes busy on your behalf when you become busy interceding for others.”

• “Wherever your feet step, God has already blessed you.”

Reflection & Discussion

1. In what ways have you recently sensed God speaking to you, and how did you respond?

2. Are there areas where you’ve become too familiar or casual with God’s word?

3. What steps can you take to grow in spiritual maturity and discernment?

4. Who are the spiritual mentors in your life, and how can you honor and learn from them more intentionally?

5. Have you ever felt prompted by God to act on someone’s behalf? What happened?

6. What “next step” of faith do you sense God leading you to take this week?