Write this Down! with Dot Bowen

How do we know if it’s the Holy Spirit speaking or just our own thoughts? In today’s conversation, Dot and Cara unpack a common question believers wrestle with: discerning God’s voice. Looking at John 14:16–18, they explore the role of the Holy Spirit and the peace that comes from obedience even when we’re unsure. Grab your Bible, journal, and a cup of coffee, and join the conversation as Dot and Cara remind us that hearing from God is rooted in an ongoing relationship, not perfection.

Got a question about today’s episode or something else you’d like to hear us talk about on the show? Let us know! 

Episode recap:
  • Start by writing down John 14:16-18 (0:10)
  • How do I know if it’s the Holy Spirit or just my own thoughts? (1:07)
  • How do you discern God’s voice? (3:46)
  • It’s okay to act on what the Spirit is telling you imperfectly (5:45) 
  • Always ask God, “is this true?” (9:30)
  • God, if you want me to say something to them, have them bring it up. (12:04)
  • Sometimes it’s not what’s wrong or right, but what is the wise thing to do? (16:54)
  • Just start the conversation: “God, this is what I think you’re telling me to do...” (20:17)

Are you interested in having Dot come and speak to your community? Email us at hello@dotbowen.com.

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Scripture Verse: 
John 14:16-18 (NASB1995) “I will ask the Father, and He will give you another Helper, that He may be with you forever;that is the Spirit of truth, whom the world cannot receive, because it does not see Him or know Him, but you know Him because He abides with you and will be in you. I will not leave you as orphans; I will come to you.”

Check out the book, Familiar Stranger by Tyler Staton: https://amzn.to/4q6XPLn
Andy Stanley’s book, The Best Question Ever: https://amzn.to/4hesGli

What is Write this Down! with Dot Bowen?

Bible teacher, author and founder of Cup of Joy Ministries, Dot Bowen, teaches listeners what it truly looks like to know, love and follow Jesus. Each week, Dot invites you to sit down with her and her daughter, Cara, to have an authentic conversation about Biblical Scripture and God’s Truth. Their honest and thought provoking conversations are full of wit and wisdom which will have you diving deeper into God’s Word.

Whether Dot is teaching, speaking or simply grabbing coffee with a dear friend, she can often be heard saying with excitement, “Write this Down!” Her heart for the listener is to take the things she asks you to write down before the Lord and ask Him to open your eyes to His Truth and love. John 8:32 says, “and you will know the Truth and the Truth will set you free.”

By the end of each episode, you’ll find yourself grabbing a pencil so that you can Write this Down! with Dot Bowen.