Hearing God Before Speaking | January 4th, 2026 | River of God | Pastor Donald Gray

Hearing God Before Speaking | January 4th, 2026 | River of God | Pastor Donald GrayIn this week’s message, Pastor Donald Gray leads us into a deeper understanding of who God is and how He speaks, grounding the teaching in the sacred name of God—He–Vav–He–Yod (יהוה)—alongside James 1:19 and 1 Corinthians 2.The Hebrew name יהוה reveals more than a title; it reveals God’s nature and nearness. Often read from right to left, it points to the Eternal One who was, who is, and who is to come—the self-existent God who reveals Himself, not through human force or noise, but through His Spirit.Pastor Donald connects this to James 1:19:“Let every person be quick to hear, slow to speak, slow to anger.”Before God speaks through us, He speaks to us. Spiritual maturity begins not with reaction, emotion, or intellect—but with listening. A hurried mouth often reveals an unsubmitted heart, but a listening spirit creates room for God’s wisdom to be revealed.Turning to 1 Corinthians 2, Paul reminds us that the things of God are not grasped by natural thinking. God’s wisdom is revealed by the Spirit, not discovered through debate, volume, or human reasoning. The same God who revealed Himself as יהוה continues to reveal Himself today—by His Spirit—to those who are willing to be still, attentive, and obedient.Pastor Donald emphasizes that hearing God requires alignment:Alignment of the heart, not just the mindAlignment of timing, not urgencyAlignment of posture, choosing humility over controlThere is a difference between speaking about God and speaking from God. The first can come from knowledge; the second only comes from revelation.This message reminds us:God reveals Himself before He reveals instructionsSpiritual wisdom begins with listening, not reactingThe Spirit speaks where humility makes roomTo walk in the mind of Christ, we must first submit our voice to HisIf you’ve been waiting for clarity, direction, or confirmation, this message is an invitation to slow down and listen. The Eternal God—יהוה—is not distant. He is present, speaking, and revealing Himself to those who are willing to hear before they speak.📖 Scripture Covered:James 1:191 Corinthians 2Exodus 3:14 (contextual reference to יהוה)🙌 Like, Share & SubscribeDon’t forget to like, share, and subscribe for more Bible teachings and sermons.🔔 Tap the bell icon to stay updated with new messages.📺 Subscribe to our YouTube channel:River of God Channel🌐 Stay Connected:Newsletter: https://eepurl.com/ioxFB2Website: https://rogcc.com📍 Join us in person:River of God Christian Center110 Wolcott St, Brooklyn, NY 11231(Red Hook, Brooklyn, NY)🎯 Relevant Hashtags:#James119 #1Corinthians2 #YHWH #HearingGod #HolySpirit #WisdomFromAbove #MindOfChrist #BibleTeaching #RiverOfGod #PastorDonaldGray