Discerning the Voice of God: How to Recognize When He Speaks

by Priscilla Shirer

Studying the Word of God heightens our spiritual senses to hear the still small voice of God and helps us recognize the promptings of the Holy Spirit. From the Old Testament prophets to modern day believers, noted author and speaker Priscilla Shirer walks the reader through Scripture that captures the method and tone of God's communication and teaches the reader to beware of counterfeit voices, how in each encounter God's voice may differ, but the nature of it does not.

Genres: Christian, Faith, Nonfiction, Christian Living, Spirituality, Christianity, Christian Non Fiction

223 pages, Kindle Edition

First published November 1, 2006

About the author

Priscilla Shirer is a wife and a mom first. But put a Bible in her hand and a message in her heart and you’ll see why thousands flock to her conferences and dive into her Bible study series’ and books each year.

A graduate of Dallas Theological Seminary, Priscilla holds a Master’s degree in Biblical Studies and considers it a privilege to serve believers from every denomination and culture by helping them to know the truths of Scripture intellectually and encouraging them to experience these truths practically by the power of the Holy Spirit.

In addition to Priscilla’s participation in many church and para-church conferences across the globe each year, Going Beyond Ministries hosts AWAKEN – an outreach event in their hometown designed to encourage and mobilize women locally. This free gathering brings together thousands of women from different denominations and backgrounds several times a year in an effort to stir revival.

Going Beyond Ministries also equips believers through books and Bible study resources. Priscilla has authored over a dozen video driven studies for women and teens on a myriad of Biblical characters and topics including Jonah, Gideon, the Exodus, discerning God’s voice, The Armor of God.

Her books include Discerning the Voice of God, God is Able, and two New York Times Bestsellers – The Resolution for Women and Fervent: A Woman’s Battle Plan for Serious, Specific and Strategic Prayer, which was named the 2016 Christian Book of the Year. Her latest offering is a 365-day devotional called Awaken: 90 Days with the God Who Speaks. In 2016, Priscilla ventured into the world of children’s publishing with The Prince Warriors, a fiction 4-book series and accompanying 365-day devotional (Unseen) designed to equip tween boys and girls for victory in spiritual warfare.

Priscilla has been married to Jerry for 20 years. Between studying and writing, she spends most of her time cleaning up after (and trying to satisfy the appetites of) their three growing boys – Jackson, Jerry Jr. and Jude.

Reviews

[Andrea Cox · Rating 5 out of 5]

by Andrea Renee Cox

Wow. Can Priscilla Shirer deliver a powerful message or what? Loved this book, the message within it. Coincided perfectly with what I'm learning in life right now. One of those times I definitely feel God wanted me to read this book at precisely this time in my life. I highlighted things, underlined, made notes in the margins... and I'll be revisiting this book in times when I feel I cannot hear God's voice very clearly.

Discerning the Voice of God is uplifting, encouraging, and a kick in the pants to sharpen those areas in life that trip you up. It's one of those books that you might as well buy two copies: one for yourself and one to give to a friend, because by the end of it, you're probably going to want to share this one -- just not your own copy, if you marked it up like I did!

Happy reading!

[Maureen · Rating 1 out of 5]

https://michellelesley.com/2015/09/18...

Priscilla Shirer is a false teacher, deceiving many. See above link. Deserves minus stars but not a choice!

[Bekah · Rating 5 out of 5]

This new revised version of the book, Discerning the Voice of God: How to Recognize When God Speaks, by Priscilla Shirer, was a very timely Bible study for me. I had read another book by this author late in 2017 and really enjoyed it, so I was excited to read something else from Priscilla Shirer. This study version was very good.

What I Liked: I really loved how many Scriptures were included and how this author encouraged the reader to study them even more beyond the study. I especially enjoyed the study on the prophet, Habakkuk late in the study, as well as the study of Abraham. It really brought their individual stories to life and encouraged me as I studied them more in depth.

I walked away from this study having come to realize the amazing character of my God in my life. God is faithful, and while I am waiting for His next direction, I need to do the next thing and trust Him that He will be faithful to provide for my needs, both physical and spiritual.

What I Didn't Like: I don't think that there was anything major that I didn't like. There were a couple times (at least) where I noticed that this author used The Message Bible version to quote a few verses and I didn't like that, as I personally believe it deviates too much from the original Scriptures. (But, of course, that is my own personal opinion.)

I give this book 5 stars for an excellent Bible study that greatly encouraged me!

[Kathryn Storey · Rating 3 out of 5]

It was good but felt really repetitive like you didn’t need to read the entire book

[Coralie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoy Priscilla Shirer's work and I was sad to not have the video teachings to accompany this study. Additionally, I went through the study on my own without my bible study group, so I just used it as a bit of a daily devotional, though I stretched it out a little longer than its intended seven weeks. However, I did greatly enjoy reading through this study nonetheless.

I love Priscilla's down-to-earth practical and tactical writing voice. She's really relatable and made me feel like we're doing life together as I went through this study. I love how she's used everyday situations to glean spiritual tools and encourage growth.

The study is setup really clearly, too. I've never done a study where the fifth day was a day of reflection and journaling and prayer, and that was a really cool experience. The content through the other four days of the week was inspiring and challenging, and I loved "treasure hunting" through my bible to complete the daily lessons and see her points illustrated more clearly. And the weekly addition her father had at the end of each set of daily lessons was really beautiful to see, too.

Honestly, I'd love to go through this study again with the video teaching. I'm sure it would add an all new layer that I missed this time around, but I still felt like this study was well-timed in my life and brought me a lot of peace and reassurance. One I'd love to go back to, but also one I enjoyed in the capacity I was able to go through it this time. I would definitely recommend it!

[Ronie · Rating 4 out of 5]

A friend and I worked through this study with the video access. Priscilla's studies are always so inspiring and pointing us to God. Plenty of toe-stomping moments but also encouragement.

[Patricia Kirk · Rating 4 out of 5]

Too often, Christians fret concerning whether they know the will of God. No trumpets blow. No burning bush stops them in their tracks. No angel knocks on the door with a letter from God. Priscilla Shirer, daughter of Dr. Tony Evans and a minister, tackles the problem of how we may recognize the voice of God with certainty. This version is the eleventh edition of this book (revised and expanded).

The first chapter pace moves a little slowly, but it picks up as the reader goes to the later chapters. The author mentions her experiences to illustrate, though often in general language. She mentions “a new ministry” for example. I wanted to know what new ministry.

Discerning the Voice of God would work well as a study guide for a group--probably its purpose. The reader will enjoy the book more by reading a chapter at a time which would fit well as a daily addition to devotions. Most Christians will find something new, and feel more secure in making decisions.

I received this book from Moody Publisher. It is an honest review.

[Jocelyn Green · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book. Priscilla is a wonderful teacher, whether it's through the spoken or written word.

[Erica · Rating 5 out of 5]

Such a wonderful study. Such a challenging, encouraging, and eye opening study.

[Nay Denise · Rating 5 out of 5]

I enjoyed everything about this book from the scriptures to the key points to the personal experiences shared. Priscilla shirer has such a way with teaching the principles of the word of God in a relatable way. I was able to walk away from this book with a new and deeper understanding on discerning the voice of God. Truly enjoyed this book!

[Oceana Reads Co.]

I worked through this for Lent and I am stopping a bit early. It definitely partnered with what I sensed the Lord teaching me throughout Lent. It's so cool how He will use whatever we have going on to speak to us.

[Rachel]

Content was good, but I found myself skimming chapters because the points in them were repetitive. I read this book with a group for which we’d read a chapter or two then get together to talk about it. We didn’t always agree with each other or the book, so it was decent at inspiring conversation. Would recommend but with reservations because I just really wanted to cut about half the words from each chapter. This might not bother those who appreciate repetition as more opportunity for the message to sink in, but it would definitely bother those who have a tendency to interpret repetition as nagging. As always, know thyself and proceed accordingly.

[Johnita L. Addison · Rating 2 out of 5]

My second attempt to read material from this Author, unfortunately I am and have been unsuccessful in being able to wrap my mind around her style of Christian writing. Not everyone is qualified nor talented enough to just write material and slap the Christian label on it.. Ohh maybe I am wrong on that one! Speaking and commanding a huge crowd is different than the art of teaching through writing. I dont know, maybe I will attempt to read another book from this writer.. I want to be fair..but this is my opinion as of now.

[Summer · Rating 5 out of 5]

I highlighted and made notes throughout the whole thing. Such an awesome book with a truly powerful message. WOW. Life changing.

[Erika · Rating 5 out of 5]

Discerning the Voice of God by Priscilla Shirer ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I really enjoyed this book and got a lot out of it. What I loved most is how she breaks down what it really means to hear from God—how He speaks through His Word, circumstances, the Holy Spirit, and even the quiet nudges we often overlook. It’s not overly complicated or full of fluff. It’s grounded in Scripture, rich in wisdom, and full of grace. Highly recommend!!

[Kasey · Rating 5 out of 5]

An absolutely splendid book about hearing the voice of the Lord. this book was able to clear up so many things about the Lord's voice in my life. It was easy to read and was beautiful to see the Lord speak more and more over the course of my reading this book. Don't give into the lie that God won't speak to you!

[Larisha · Rating 5 out of 5]

God allowed me to lead a neighborhood group of ladies in this study as I have seen in my life the Person of the Holy Spirit speak to me, direct my footsteps, and guide me towards the Calling HE has for my life!! As a result, a new neighbor shared how she would like that level of faith and that began the neighborhood group!! God is All-Knowing and HE knew how lives would be Blessed and Transformed :)

God wants to speak directly to each of His beloved children!!

The study focuses on why young Samuel heard the voice of God. Sad to say many have brought into the lies of our adversary and think that "hearing from God is charismatic" but if we dig into the word of God for True Understanding...our lives will never be the same but we will hear from God and be transformed.

For God's Glory!!

[Amy Robinson · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was in a group of about five women who did a Bible study with this book and the DVD that Shirer updated this year. Refreshing, encouraging, spiritual, and exactly what I needed. This Bible study changed my life. It made me see things in a different way and to stop looking for direct answers to God's will for my life, but to expect to see his hand in the mundane tasks and day by day schedule as I go about my day. Very inspiring!

[Linda · Rating 5 out of 5]

The message in this book is so powerful.  After reading it you'll have no need to question whether God is speaking  because you'll have a better knowledge of how God speaks and why He speaks.  You'll learn how to live in the now and how to wait for God to speak answers to your heart. Priscilla Shirer tells the truths of God's Word with such a down-to-earth writing style that you feel as if you're growing with her instead of sitting under a sermon.

[Linda · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is an awesome book on recognizing when God is speaking to us. Priscilla writes in a way that’s easily understood, I feel as if we’re chatting over coffee. I like the chapter challenges, I’ve taken my time and reflected on each chapter, and the scriptures included. I recommend this book, it may be the best I’ve read on discernment. She also shares personal experiences which I enjoy. I recommend this book if you want to learn more about hearing God wh n He speaks to us.

[Lyn · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was timely for me. I love Priscilla's teaching style. This book is a must read for those who need to learn to discern God's voice. We always talk to God and we should, but the main thing is to also listen to God. To one the Holy Spirit. I don't re-read many books, but this one I will. I can't wait to see her at Trinity Church in Miami. Can't wait.

[Susan Cobb · Rating 4 out of 5]

Priscella Shirer has a way to explain things about God speaking and makes it easy to understand. A
very big thumbs up.

[Beth M · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was one of the best of this type of bible studies that I've done. Good stuff!

[Kim · Rating 5 out of 5]

Awesome book and life changing. There were great reminders of obedience and waiting on God’s timing. Also, I was encouraged with many Bible verses that I have never meditated on. Highly recommend!

[Teale · Rating 5 out of 5]

One of my favorite reads!

[Zoey · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is very beautifully written because it speaks the truth and is saturated in biblical wisdom. I love the way that God uses His faithful servants to minister to me during specific seasons of my life. God will point me towards a specific book and the order in which I should read them, and they always pertain to what He knows I need right then and there. I'm not sure when exactly I started reading this book, but I do know that it's been during a huge transitory period of my life and God has been speaking to me and guiding me in such beautiful ways and it makes me smile just to think about the grace He's shown me and the bits and pieces of this book that I KNOW to be true because I've experienced it. God desires for us to know more about who He is on a deeply intimate level, and He knows exactly where we need to go for us to experience Him in profoundly unique ways so that His attributes may be made manifest to us, not just as head knowledge but through lived experience.
"So when He speaks, you'll recognize His voice because in following it's directive, you will be put into position to experience God's character in your life. The Enemy, or your ego, or even your very own mind will often lead you down the path that shields you by keeping you comfortable. The voice of God, however, will reveal an attribute of Himself that is available for you to experience. He'll encourage you to take that route- the one that will most clearly cause you to discover and personally experience an attribute of God."- pg 158-159
And I can tell you that it's often not the "easiest route", it's often waged with much war against the flesh, it's uncomfortable but your spirit is at ease because the Fathers hand is over it and His peace which transcends all understanding is yours in Christ Jesus and will fill you with such joy and reverence for your Father. You will feel and know His heart without a shadow of a doubt because in your perceived inadequacies, in your lack thereofs, in your fear and incapabilities, is where you find that He is capable and He is shepherding you. It's where you find that you are in His warm embrace and it's where you learn that He is the stronghold of your life. It's where you find His heart and His all sustaining power. "Then I said to you, 'Do not be in dread or afraid of them.' The Lord your God who goes before you will Himself fight for you, just as He did for you in Egypt before your eyes and in the wilderness, where you have seen how the Lord your God carried you, as a man carries his son, all the way that you went until you came to this place."- Deuteronomy 1:29-30
Obey the Lord and His directives and the inklings of the Spirit and watch the ways in which He carries you. Feel His arms surrounding you and His warm embrace and be in awe of His tender care. I promise you He's there, even in the waiting because often it's in the waiting where He's shaping you and preparing you for the mission in which He's predestined you for. Trust that He is working even when you don't feel it, even when you can't see it, because He WANTS to make Himself known to you, He is not in the business of withholding Himself, the entire gospel message reveals this as true. He has a purpose in your waiting. Lean into it and trust that He will reveal Himself at the appointed time, He will speak directives unto you when you are meant to move and, in the meantime, continue to be His faithful servant right where you are planted.

[Whitney · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoy Priscilla Shirer's books, her personality, and how she approaches everything.
I tried to read this in tandem with the small group study of the same title. Speed bumps came along in our group study and we ended up stalling out on it, and I ended up reading this book in bits and pieces alongside (many) other books.
It took me 2 months to finish this book, which, clocking in at just over 200 pages, is not very good for me when I can knock out that much in a day or two at most with a novel! Though, in my sort-of defense, the material is serious and requires of me a lot of thought, consideration, and careful reading. I did get a lot of insights during my first read of this book, but I neglected to give it the needed attention and focus due such "heavy" and thoughtful material. I'm sure I will get even more out of it when I revisit it (Priscilla's books are keepers!) and give it that deserved attention and focus. I also found the audio version on Hoopla, so I will probably listen to it on audio before I reread the printed book.

[Meredith · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very good, practical study on learning how to hear and listen to God’s leading. I especially appreciated her teachings on the Holy Spirit and learning the difference between our mind, will, conscience, and emotions. Priscilla’s teaching videos were excellent! 🙌🏼

Some favorite quotes:
“The will that is submitted to Him is not extinguished; it is simply surrendered.”

“God‘s benefits and blessings will always be far more valuable than whatever it is we feel so resistant to release.”

“So many of us are too busy doing good things that we miss out on God things.”

“Desiring and doing His will is not your responsibility to discover; it is His responsibility to reveal.”

“Stop frantically searching for God’s will; start frantically searching for God Himself.”

God saved our souls on Calvary; His word saves our minds daily.”

“When you can’t trace His hand, trust His heart.”

[Ogz · Rating 5 out of 5]

I enjoyed every bit of this study. Some where difficult to follow through because it's always difficult to completely obey God when he desires to strip us of everything self for his glory.
The bible references were very helpful and God truly speaks to you during the series of this study and thereafter.
With this book, you find yourself wanting more of God and desiring to spend more time studying, praying and listening to him.
It was a long commitment, especially while doing the study with the videos. It took me more than the required 90 days but I finally got through with good and juicy bits to keep my commitment with God going.
Definitely planning on going through this study again.

[Wambui Ndung’u · Rating 5 out of 5]

I want to buy this book for everyone I know.

Through every page, I felt God’s presence so deeply. Priscilla Shirer has a way of writing that can’t be imitated clear, convicting, yet so tender. This book isn’t just a read; it’s an experience of learning to hear Him more clearly and trust Him more fully.