“How do you know it’s God speaking?”
“How do I hear God’s voice?”
“Does God speak to people today?
I’ve heard these questions from friends and in Bible studies, and I’ve asked them myself. “How do I know it’s God and not me?” seems to be a question every Christian asks himself at least once on the journey.
So I was excited to find this book by Priscilla Shirer. Discerning the Voice of God offers practical advice for God-glorifying decision-making. Shirer takes a complex and sometimes confusing issue — “Is it God?” “Or me?” “Or the Enemy?” — and breaks it down into simple pieces. Will it bring glory to God? Is it consistent with His truth? Is it confirmed by external circumstances? Do you have a sense of peace, even if the decision is challenging? These “tests” make hearing from God accessible to all believers, not just a chosen few.
Discerning the Voice of God was my introduction to Shirer’s writing and teaching, and I have to say, I want to read more. She speaks from the heart with conviction and confidence. Her teaching is to the point and simple, bringing clarity not creating confusion. Her passion for the Lord and His truth comes through in her writing.
My family is facing some major life decisions and I’ve found Discerning the Voice of God to be a trustworthy guide through the process.
FAVORITES: Shirer uses personal examples and common experiences to illustrate her points. I connected with her like I would sharing a cup of coffee with a girlfriend. Her insights make hearing from God less intimidating.
FAULTS: A couple of Scriptures seemed stretched to fit her point when looked at in context. However, I haven’t studied those Scriptures in depth nor did I look up the original language. Those rare instances didn’t detract from the overall message.
IN A WORD: Understandable. Shirer speaks to new Christians and seasoned saints alike. She doesn’t just say, “listen for the still small voice” in answer to the “how do I hear from God?” question. She tells you what that looks like and sounds like and how she’s experienced it in her life. This book is a great resource.
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WANT YOUR OWN COPY? In exchange for my review, I received a free copy of Discerning the Voice of God from Moody Publishers. I’ve underlined, starred and circled in my copy, but lucky for you, I received a bonus copy of the book in the mail. I’d love for one of you to have it! Leave a comment on the blog about why you want to know how to hear from God, and I’ll pick a winner next Wednesday, May 9 and post the winner’s name on next week’s book review post. Want extra chances to win? Of course you do! Share this giveaway with your Facebook friends or Tweet it (1 extra entry each), subscribe to this blog via e-mail (1 extra entry) or follow me on Twitter (1 extra entry), and leave ANOTHER comment her on the blog about it. Confusing? Just spread the word and come back here and tell me what you did!
BUT WAIT, THERE’S MORE! If you like FREE books (and who doesn’t?) check back here on Friday for an announcement about more books I’m giving away during the month of May.
We find ourselves in uncertain times as well. Kevin’s job has been unstable for 3 years, off and on. He works for a start-up company that is always in need of funding. God has faithfully provided for us these last 3 years but we are, again, at the point of needing money or deciding if we need to make some changes. We constantly struggle to discern God’s voice with decisions in regards to his job, our family’s future, etc. We constantly ask questions and wonder if we know with certainity that it is (was) God’s voice. Thanks for posting this review! It’s definitely a book I’d like to have, whether I “win” a free copy or not! I always enjoy reading your posts! Keep at it!
I shared your link of this entry on Facebook! : )
I have been wanting to read some of her books and this looks like a good one! My family has been in the midst of about 50 big life transitions and hearing more clearly from God is definitely needed in the midst of this!
Oh yeah – I follow you on Twitter too!