Bible Verses about the Different Ways God Speaks

God speaks in many different ways. Below is a list of Bible verses that discuss the different ways God speaks. I’ve also included a scripture reference that provides an example of each method through a story in the Bible for future study.

God Speaks through His Word

Hebrews 4:12

For the word of God is alive and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart. 

Romans 10:17

Consequently, faith comes from hearing the message, and the message is heard through the Word about Christ.

Example: Nehemiah 9:1-31–And they stood up in their place and read 

from the Book of the Law…

God uses His Word to convict the Israelites and bring understanding about their exile from Israel. 

God Speaks through People

1 Thessalonians 2:13

And we also thank God continually because, when you received the word of God, which you heard from us, you accepted it not as a human word, but as it actually is, the word of God, which is indeed at work in you who believe.

Hebrews 1:1

In the past God spoke to our ancestors through the prophets at many times and in various ways.

Example: 2 Chronicles 35:20-24–He did not listen to the words of Neco 

from the mouth of God…

God spoke through Pharaoh to warn King Josiah not to enter into battle.

God Speaks through the Conviction of the Holy Spirit

John 14:26

But the Advocate, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you all things and will remind you of everything I have said to you.

John 16:13

But when he, the Spirit of truth, comes, he will guide you into all the truth. He will not speak on his own; he will speak only what he hears, and he will tell you what is yet to come.

Example: Act 8:29–And the Spirit said to Philip…

The Holy Spirit tells Philip to talk to an Ethiopian eunuch.

God Speaks through Dreams

Job 33:14-15

For God does speak—now one way, now another—though no one perceives it. In a dream, in a vision of the night, when deep sleep falls on people as they slumber in their beds.

Genesis 41:15-16

Pharaoh said to Joseph, “I had a dream, and no one can interpret it. But I have heard it said of you that when you hear a dream you can interpret it.”

“I cannot do it,” Joseph replied to Pharaoh, “but God will give Pharaoh the answer he desires.”

Example: Acts 18:9-10–And the Lord said to Paul on night in a vision…

God sends the Apostle Paul a dream to encourage him to continue his missionary work in Corinth.

God Speaks through Visions

Numbers 12:6

He said, “Listen to my words: When there is a prophet among you, I, the Lord, reveal myself to them in visions, I speak to them in dreams.

Joel 2:28

And afterward, I will pour out my Spirit on all people. Your sons and daughters will prophesy, your old men will dream dreams, your young men will see visions.

Example: Daniel 10:1-9–And he understood the word 

and had understanding of the vision…

Daniel has a terrifying vision of an angel who tells Daniel that God has heard his prayers for the Israelites.

And Lastly, God Speaks through Circumstances

Proverbs 16:9

In their hearts humans plan their course, but the Lord establishes their steps.

Jeremiah 29:11

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.

Example: 1 Samuel 1:9-20–Go in peace, and the God of Israel grant your petition…

God answers Hannah’s prayer to have a child.

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In Conclusion

As you can see, God speaks in many different ways. This truth is clearly illustrated throughout the Bible. If you like more resources to help you learn to hear the voice of God, please check out other articles on the blog. These resources include a guide for those new to hearing God’s voice.

Do you have a favorite Bible verse about hearing God’s voice or how God speaks to us? Please share below!