Intuition is something we all experience to some degree. It’s that “gut feeling” or inner sense that guides our thoughts and decisions. As women, many of us feel we have a special intuition – an inner voice and wisdom that comes naturally. But what does the Bible say about this? Is women’s intuition real, and if so, how should we use it? Let’s explore this topic and see what God’s Word reveals.
Key Takeaways
- Women’s intuition appears to be real, though not infallible
- Scripture shows women receiving revelation and discernment from God
- Intuition should be tested against God’s Word and wise counsel
- Intuition can be God’s way of guiding, but also requires wisdom and discernment
- Women should grow in wisdom and knowledge of Scripture to refine intuition
- Intuition is no substitute for godly wisdom or walking in the Spirit
Examining Examples of Women’s Intuition
As you examine Scripture, there are examples of women who demonstrated strong intuition and discernment that came from the Lord. One example is how Rebekah intuitively knew Jacob was the son to whom God had given the blessing and birthright, not Esau (Genesis 27:1-17). She perceived this before Jacob and Esau were even born:
But the children struggled together within her; and she said, “If all is well, why am I like this?” So she went to inquire of the Lord. And the Lord said to her: “Two nations are in your womb, Two peoples shall be separated from your body; One people shall be stronger than the other, And the older shall serve the younger.” (Genesis 25:22-23)
Rebekah had an inner knowing that came from the Lord. Her intuition aligned with God’s plans and purposes.
Another example is how Moses’ mother Jochebed seemed to intuitively know that her baby boy was special:
And when she saw that he was a beautiful child, she hid him three months. (Exodus 2:2)
Jochebed discerned that Moses was unique and precious, so she protected him. Her intuition was correct – he would grow up to deliver Israel from bondage.
In the New Testament, Anna the prophetess immediately recognized Jesus as the promised Messiah when Mary and Joseph brought him as an infant to the temple:
And coming in that instant she gave thanks to the Lord, and spoke of Him to all those who looked for redemption in Jerusalem. (Luke 2:38)
Anna had amazingly accurate intuition and spiritual insight about Jesus’ identity and purpose.
Divine Insight vs. Wishful Thinking
These examples show how God can grant women an inner sense, wisdom, and revelation. However, we must use discernment. Intuition can be misleading if it contradicts Scripture or comes from the wrong spiritual source. Our feelings and hunches aren’t always true spiritual intuition from the Lord.
The Bible warns that the heart is deceitful (Jeremiah 17:9). Our emotions and desires can cloud perception. We may confuse intuition with wishful thinking or self-interest. This is why we should test intuition, especially by comparing it to biblical truth. If your intuition says one thing, but the Bible says another – go with Scripture. God’s Word is the final authority.
For example, a woman who wants to marry an unbeliever might “sense” it is right, while ignoring biblical teaching against this (2 Corinthians 6:14). This would be emotion and desire overriding spiritual discernment. Intuition should align with God’s principles.
Growing in Wisdom and Discernment
The more we grow in godly wisdom, faith, and knowledge of Scripture, the better we refine true spiritual intuition. Regular Bible study helps us recognize God’s voice versus our own thoughts or other influences. The book of Proverbs has much to say about growing in wisdom and understanding.
My son, if you receive my words, And treasure my commands within you, So that you incline your ear to wisdom, And apply your heart to understanding; Yes, if you cry out for discernment, And lift up your voice for understanding, If you seek her as silver, And search for her as for hidden treasures; Then you will understand the fear of the Lord, And find the knowledge of God. (Proverbs 2:1-5)
Seeking the Lord in His Word is key. The Holy Spirit will lead us into truth as we study Scripture and pray for insight. Learning to recognize and obey God’s voice takes practice. As we walk closely with Jesus Christ, our discernment grows.
Using Intuition Wisely
Intuition can be helpful when handled appropriately. Here are some ways to use it wisely:
- Pray for discernment. Ask God for clear direction and check your intuition against His Word. Don’t assume every hunch is His Spirit.
- Seek counsel. Get godly advice from mature believers. “Where there is no counsel, the people fall; But in the multitude of counselors there is safety.” (Proverbs 11:14)
- Consider your motives. Examine your heart. Be sure intuition isn’t colored by selfish interests or wishful thinking.
- Wait on God. Don’t rush into hasty decisions based only on intuition. Give God time to confirm direction through prayer, Scripture, and wise counsel.
- Hold it loosely. Recognize your intuition isn’t infallible. Remain open and flexible to other paths as God guides.
- Act in faith. Once you determine a prompting aligns with God’s will and Word, step out. His inner voice should give us courage to follow Him.
As you can see, intuition can be valuable but also requires caution and wisdom. The key is staying grounded in Scripture while allowing the Holy Spirit to minister to us.
Intuition is No Substitute for the Holy Spirit
It’s exciting when God grants women inner discernment and revelations. However, we must remember intuition is no substitute for walking in the Spirit. Our primary guide should be the Holy Spirit speaking through Scripture, not hunches or vibes.
Intuition can supplement the Spirit’s leading, but the Bible must remain preeminent. A woman who relies more on intuition than God’s Word will likely drift into deception and error. Even our intuitions must bow to the authority of Jesus Christ. He is the Chief Shepherd who guides us skillfully into truth:
When he has brought out all his own, he goes on ahead of them, and his sheep follow him because they know his voice. (John 10:4)
As born again believers, God’s flock, we follow the Good Shepherd. His voice rings clear through the Bible and Spirit. That’s what shapes our path – not fleeting hunches.
Yes, pay attention when God grants insight, but stay rooted in His Word. A woman who walks closely with Jesus will grow in wisdom far beyond natural intuition. She will receive true spiritual discernment that guides each step.
So nurture your relationship with Christ. Pursue His presence through prayer and Scripture. Seek the filling of the Holy Spirit. This is where true wisdom originates. As you walk with God in this way, your intuition will become increasingly accurate and helpful. But remember, it is the work of the Spirit, not natural intuition or effort, that makes supernatural discernment possible.
Conclusion
Women’s intuition appears to be real, based on biblical examples of God granting revelation and discernment. However, intuition is fallible and should be checked against Scripture. The key is growing in wisdom and spiritual maturity through God’s Word. Ask the Lord for discernment, wait on Him, seek wise counsel, and act in faith when He gives direction. Remember that walking in the Spirit is more important than intuition. Stay grounded in the Bible and submission to Christ. Then your natural intuition will become an increasingly useful tool for hearing God’s voice. As you follow the Good Shepherd closely, He will sharpen your discernment far beyond yourself.
