Spiritual sensitivity is the believer’s ability to recognize, discern, and respond to the voice and leading of the Holy Spirit. Without it, even the most passionate Christian may fall into error or confusion. The Bible shows us how crucial sensitivity to God’s voice is for walking in His will.
In Matthew 16:13–16, 22–23 (KJV), we see a striking example:
- In verse 16, Peter receives divine revelation and boldly declares Jesus as “the Christ, the Son of the Living God.”
- Just a few verses later, in verse 22, Peter speaks from another source, trying to rebuke Jesus and contradict His mission. Jesus immediately rebukes him, saying: “Get thee behind me, Satan…”
This shows that even the same person can, within a short time, hear from the Spirit of God, the flesh, and even the devil.
The Three Voices That Speak to You
At every moment, three voices are contending for your attention. Knowing how to distinguish them is key to sharpening your spiritual sensitivity.
1. The Voice of God (The Holy Spirit)
- Always agrees with the written Word of God.
- Always glorifies Christ and points men back to Him.
- Brings peace, conviction, and alignment with God’s will.
(John 16:13–14)
2. The Voice of the Flesh
- Driven by sight, emotions, and feelings.
- Relies on human reasoning instead of spiritual discernment.
- Example: Samuel almost anointed Eliab as king based on appearance until God corrected him (1 Samuel 16:6–7).
- Flesh-driven words may sound appealing but lack spiritual depth and truth.
3. The Voice of the Devil
- Always contradicts or twists God’s Word.
- Aims to lure you into rebellion, compromise, and disobedience.
- Works through lies, temptations, and deception.
(Genesis 3:1–5, John 8:44)
How to Sharpen Your Spiritual Sensitivity
If you desire to consistently recognize and obey the voice of God, these biblical practices are essential:
1. Maintain Consecration
Live a life separated unto God in purity and holiness. Guard your eye gate, ear gate, heart, and mouth against corruption.
“How then can I do this great wickedness, and sin against God?” – Genesis 39:9
2. Be a Consistent Student of the Word
The written Word is the foundation of every revelation. The more you study and meditate, the easier it becomes to recognize God’s voice.
“But we will give ourselves continually to prayer, and to the ministry of the word.” – Acts 6:4
3. Pray in Tongues Regularly and for Long Hours
Praying in the Spirit purifies your inner man, builds up your faith, and keeps your spiritual channels unclogged. It also activates other gifts of the Spirit.
“But ye, beloved, building up yourselves on your most holy faith, praying in the Holy Ghost.” – Jude 1:20
4. Avoid Pride, Love of Money, and Materialism
A proud or greedy heart cannot clearly hear from God. When pressured by material gain or self-exaltation, you risk prophesying from your flesh. Stay humble and content.
“For the love of money is the root of all evil…” – 1 Timothy 6:10
5. Submit to Mentorship
Impartation and sharpening often come through submission to those who have walked the path before you. Don’t reinvent the wheel—sit under a seasoned, Spirit-filled prophet or teacher.
“And Joshua the son of Nun was full of the spirit of wisdom; for Moses had laid his hands upon him.” – Deuteronomy 34:9
“For I long to see you, that I may impart unto you some spiritual gift, to the end ye may be established.” – Romans 1:11
Why Sharpening Spiritual Sensitivity Matters
- Discernment: Helps you separate truth from deception.
- Direction: Provides clarity for decisions in life and ministry.
- Protection: Shields you from the snares of the enemy.
- Fruitfulness: Ensures your walk with God produces results aligned with His will.
Revelation separates men. The depth of your sensitivity to the Spirit determines the height of your walk with God.
Final Word
Every believer can sharpen their spiritual sensitivity through consecration, prayer, Word study, humility, and mentorship. Just like Peter, you may sometimes swing between revelation and error—but with growth and discipline, you will increasingly align with the voice of God.
Stay yielded, stay watchful, and let the Holy Spirit guide you into all truth.
Yours in His service,
Bishop Okwudili Eze (The Mandated Prophet)
Zion Heritage and Miracle Ministries
www.enthronementhub.com
