There’s a sobering thought that many of us never stop to consider: If Satan could talk angels out of heaven, he can certainly talk you into hell.
That’s why we must be very careful what voices we listen to. Not every voice that sounds good is from God. Some voices come to deceive, to distract, and to destroy. Learning how to discern God’s voice from the enemy’s voice is not just important—it’s a matter of life and eternity.
The Voice That Sounds Convincing
Think about it: Satan was once an angel in heaven, and he convinced one-third of the angels to follow him in rebellion against God (Revelation 12:4). These angels lived in God’s presence, yet they were deceived.
If beings who saw the glory of God could be misled, how much more should we guard our hearts and minds today? The devil doesn’t show up with horns and a pitchfork—he comes disguised, often sounding convincing, appealing, or even “harmless.”
2 Corinthians 11:14 warns us: “And no marvel; for Satan himself is transformed into an angel of light” (KJV).
Eve: Listening to the Wrong Voice
In the Garden of Eden, Eve listened to the serpent’s voice. God had already spoken clearly: “Ye shall not eat of it, neither shall ye touch it, lest ye die” (Genesis 3:3, KJV). Yet the enemy whispered, “Ye shall not surely die” (Genesis 3:4, KJV).
The devil’s lie directly contradicted God’s truth, but because it was persuasive, Eve listened—and humanity fell.
This story shows us a powerful truth: who you listen to determines the direction of your life.
How to Discern God’s Voice from the Enemy’s Voice
So, how do we make sure we are following the voice of God and not being deceived by the enemy?
- God’s Voice Aligns with His Word
God never contradicts His Word. If what you’re hearing doesn’t line up with Scripture, it’s not from Him. Psalm 119:105 says, “Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path” (KJV). - The Enemy’s Voice Brings Confusion
God is not the author of confusion (1 Corinthians 14:33). His voice brings clarity and peace, while the enemy’s voice brings doubt, fear, and division. - God’s Voice Leads to Life and Holiness
The enemy tempts you toward sin, compromise, and self-indulgence. God calls you to holiness, obedience, and life in the Spirit. Jesus said in John 10:10, “I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly” (KJV). - The Enemy’s Voice Appeals to Fleshly Desires
Satan will whisper shortcuts, instant gratification, and excuses for sin. God’s voice often calls us to deny ourselves, pick up our cross, and follow Him (Luke 9:23).
A Story of Two Paths
Imagine you are standing at a crossroads. One path looks wide, easy, and exciting. A voice whispers, “This is the way—no sacrifice, no pain, all pleasure.” It seems right, but in the end, it leads to destruction (Proverbs 14:12).
The other path looks narrow, difficult, and less appealing. But another voice whispers, “This is the way, walk ye in it” (Isaiah 30:21, KJV). That path may cost you something now, but it leads to eternal life.
This is the choice we face daily: which voice will we follow?
Guarding Your Ears and Heart
Friend, be careful what voices you allow into your life—through media, friendships, culture, or even your own thoughts. Not every voice deserves your agreement.
Jesus said in John 10:27, “My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me” (KJV). If you are His, you can learn to recognize His voice above all others.
Walk in Discernment
If Satan can talk angels out of heaven, he can talk you into hell. Don’t underestimate his lies. But don’t be afraid either. The closer you walk with God, the easier it becomes to discern His voice from the enemy’s.
Fill your mind with Scripture. Spend time in prayer. Surround yourself with godly counsel. As you do, God’s voice will become clearer and the enemy’s lies will lose their grip.
Remember: God’s voice leads to life, the enemy’s voice leads to destruction. Choose wisely which voice you follow.
“Beloved, believe not every spirit, but try the spirits whether they are of God: because many false prophets are gone out into the world” (1 John 4:1, KJV).
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