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Discerning the Voice of God: How to Recognize When God Speaks
From the pen of one who has been where you are: loving God and longing to hear his voice, Priscilla Shirer shares her insights based on practical experience and years of biblical study in this new edition of Discerning the Voice of God . In it she writes: Through His longsuffering and steadfastness, God has invited me to know Him better. And the more intimate I've become with Him, the more acquainted I've become with His voice. He has proven Himself to me not because I'm more special than anyone else, but because He loves proving His Word is true-to all His children. To you. One of Priscilla's bestselling titles, Discerning the Voice of God is now completely revised with updated content and reflection questions. Each section contains insights that will aid you in your desire to hear Him speak: Realize the Way He Speaks, Recognize the Sound of His Voice, Remember What He Wants to Accomplish, and Ready Yourself for Even More. Discover the treasure of recognizing how God keeps in touch with his beloved people and watch as He communicates with you.
185 pages, Paperback
First published November 1, 2006
1929 people are currently reading
8439 people want to read
About the author
Priscilla Shirer
78 books2,436 followersPriscilla 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.
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.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 517 reviews
February 15, 2017
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!
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!
August 8, 2019
https://michellelesley.com/2015/09/18...
Priscilla Shirer is a false teacher, deceiving many. See above link. Deserves minus stars but not a choice!
Priscilla Shirer is a false teacher, deceiving many. See above link. Deserves minus stars but not a choice!
March 12, 2018
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!
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!
August 15, 2022
It was good but felt really repetitive like you didn’t need to read the entire book
September 6, 2021
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!
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!
April 27, 2012
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.
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.
October 6, 2016
I loved this book. Priscilla is a wonderful teacher, whether it's through the spoken or written word.
April 17, 2018
Such a wonderful study. Such a challenging, encouraging, and eye opening study.
February 16, 2023
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!
Read
March 23, 2021I 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.
March 25, 2018
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.
July 2, 2020
I highlighted and made notes throughout the whole thing. Such an awesome book with a truly powerful message. WOW. Life changing.
August 3, 2025
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!!
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!!
March 11, 2011
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!!
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!!
Read
February 11, 2018Content 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.
January 1, 2018
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!
April 13, 2019
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.
June 10, 2019
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.
April 16, 2018
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.
September 22, 2016
Priscella Shirer has a way to explain things about God speaking and makes it easy to understand. A
very big thumbs up.
very big thumbs up.
November 4, 2017
This was one of the best of this type of bible studies that I've done. Good stuff!
January 7, 2018
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!
June 10, 2023
One of my favorite reads!
December 24, 2018
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.
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.
March 2, 2025
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.”
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.”
April 18, 2018
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.
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.
August 24, 2025
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.
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.
April 1, 2018
This was my favorite ladies Bible Study in years. Hearing the voice of the Lord in trials, in unanswered prayers, in the daily mundane, in relationships, in the good, and in big and little choices. It was so personally uplifting, and my friends and I really enjoyed diving into the ‘homework.’
December 8, 2024
I think it's so important to remember a book like this is her experience of God speaking to her and is not meant to be divine law for all, but there were some helpful things and some encouraging moments.
November 12, 2019
Best Bible study I've ever done!
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