It Is Possible to Hear God in Prayer

Charismatic prayer places importance on developing a relationship with God.  Having been immersed in the Holy Spirit, charismatics believe and can teach others that prayer is not just a one-way street of us talking to God, but also that God speaks back to us.  The charismatic gifts of prophecy, word of knowledge, visions, and even healing are fruits of listening to God speak. 

Saints throughout history have proven by their lives and recorded in their writings that God can speak to us.  The saints provide a good example for us to imitate, and find that we can hear God speaking to us too.  The Second Vatican Council taught that all Christians are called to be saints, so it not presumptuous to think that God could speak to you.  It is not a matter of being holy enough or worthy to hear God speak; it is a question of willingness to turn to God, and listen.

Pope John Paul II described how St. Clare developed her prayer life.

"Clare's contemplative journey, which will culminate in her vision of the "King of glory" (Proc IV, 19), begins precisely in her total abandonment to the Spirit of the Lord, in the same way as Mary did at the annunciation: that is to say, it begins with that spirit of poverty (cf. Luke 1:48) which empties her of everything but the simplicity of a gaze fixed on God." - Pope John Paul II, 1993, Letter on the 800th anniversary of the birth of St. Clare

Abandonment to the Spirit of the Lord is the disposition the heart needs in order to mature to the point of being able to receive God's words in prayer.  Opening our selves to the Holy Spirit is at the beginning of spiritual growth, and from that point we can develop friendship with Him.  He shows us how to pray and how to use spiritual gifts.  Like St. Clare, we need to start out with the eyes of our heart turned to God.  Over time as we get to know God more, we will love Him more, and be better able to respond to Him in prayer.

Hearing God's voice is not reserved just for a few special people known as saints.  It is for everyone because it helps us live a holy life.  Hearing God helps us obey Him.  Vatican II taught, "The classes and duties of life are many, but holiness is one - that sanctity which is cultivated by all who are moved by the Spirit of God, and who obey the voice of the Father and worship God the Father in spirit and in truth."  (Lumen Gentium chapter 5, paragraph 41).

How do we Listen?

While it is possible to listen for God anywhere, people find it is easier to hear Him when they can set aside other concerns and focus on prayer.  This may be in a quiet part of your home, outside, in church, at Eucharistic Adoration, during Mass, during praise and worship, or during a prayer group with others.  You may hear God may speak in your heart while praying the Rosary, in the middle of a song, or while reading the Bible.  God may also speak to you during an event, while driving, taking a walk, speaking with a friend, or while making a decision.

When we believe we have heard from the Lord, we need to discern it.  Telling the difference between God's voice and our good thoughts can be confusing.  There is also the danger that the devil or a demon could try to mislead us by saying something that sounds good, but really is not, for a reason we might not yet understand.  With discernment in place, these are things to be careful about, but not scared about.  We can trust God's words and God's protection while hearing them, because He is on our side and will only speak the truth.

For discernment, an easy rule of thumb is that if it is from God, it will be true, so it will be harmonious with what God has taught humankind already through the Bible and the Church which can easily be found in the Catechism.  Also, if a message would hurt our primary vocation, it can be discarded.  Another useful practice is to test the message with others who are wise and holy, such as a spiritual director, confessor, or wise and true friends whose live are marked by a high degree of union with God and are thus familiar with His voice.  The Church is a community, and we are not alone.

What do we Hear?

God may give you direction, show you what to do, or give you faith simply to trust Him.  When asking God about something, He may say "yes," "no," or "not yet."  He may remind you of something you already knew but show you how to apply or appreciate that knowledge in a new situation.  He may say something specific for you, or give you a message to bring to another person or group.  This may be described as the gift of prophecy, and if you experience it, do not be afraid, but follow what the Bible says about it, "Test everything; retain what is good." (1 Thessalonians 5:20-21).

Classical Paths of Spiritual Growth

Throughout the centuries, wise men and women have recorded their prayerful journeies towards deep union with God.  Some reliable witnesses to learn from are St. John of the Cross, St. Theresa of Avila, St. Faustina, St. Francis, and St. Clare.  Their writings are available today, and can be found in Catholic bookstores, libraries, or by searching online booksellers.