Open in Prayer.

Key Takeaways:
1. God is always speaking, but we need to learn to listen and discern His voice.
2. Closeness with God drives familiarity with His voice.
3. There are four main ways God speaks to us: through His Word, prayer, circumstances, and other people (especially the church).
4. Once we hear God's voice, we should trust and take bold steps of action and determined obedience.

Discussion Questions:
1. Pastor Brent mentions that we live in a world with many voices competing for our attention. What are some of the loudest "voices" in your life right now? How do these voices impact your ability to hear God?
     Reference Isaiah 26:3
2. The sermon emphasizes the importance of closeness with God to recognize His voice. What practices have helped you feel closer to God in the past? Are there any new practices you'd like to try?  Example: fasting, silence & solitude, daily Bible reading...
     Reference Psalm 25:4-5
3. Reflect on a time when you felt you clearly heard God's voice. How did you know it was God? What was the result of following (or not following) that guidance?
     Reference 1 Kings 19:11-12
4. Pastor Brent discusses four ways God speaks: through His Word, prayer, circumstances, and other people. Which of these do you find easiest to recognize? Which is most challenging for you?
5. How do you distinguish between God's voice and your own desires or thoughts? What strategies do you use to confirm that you're hearing from God?
     Reference Jeremiah 17:9
6. The sermon mentions the importance of taking bold steps of action once we hear God's voice. Can you share an experience where you took action based on what you believed God was saying? What was the outcome?
     Reference 1 Kings 8:58
7. Psalm 23 is presented as an illustration of our relationship with God as our shepherd. Which part of this psalm resonates most with you right now, and why?

Practical Applications:
1. 21 Days of Prayer Challenge: Commit to participating in the church's 21 days of prayer initiative. Set aside specific times each day for intentional prayer and listening to God.
2. One-Day Fast: Choose one day during the 21-day period to do a water-only fast, using the time you would normally spend eating to read and meditate on God's Word.
3. Bible Reading Plan: Start a daily Bible reading plan to immerse yourself in God's Word. Consider using a journaling method to record insights and what you feel God is saying to you.
4. Accountability Partner: Pair up with another group member to check in regularly about your efforts to hear God's voice and act on what He's saying.
5. Service Opportunity: As a group, pray about and choose a way to serve others in your community, listening for God's guidance in how to meet needs around you.

Closing Prayer:
Thank God for His desire to speak to us. Ask for heightened sensitivity to His voice and courage to act on what He says.