When you're getting to know someone, it takes a while to recognize their sense of humor, or their likes and dislikes. The better you know them, the easier it is to understand where they're coming from or what they're saying, even when they don't say a word. This same discernment happens between you and the Lord the better you know the Word. The more closely you study and seek understanding, the easier it is to hear how He speaks to you. You begin to relate with a familiarity that wasn't there before, until it becomes almost effortless. Although we may not always respond in the right way, we can be assured that as long as we seek, we'll find.