Priscilla Shirer Discerning The Voice Of God

Priscilla Shirer Discerning The Voice Of God

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Hearing God’s voice is one of the greatest desires of many believers, yet it can often feel challenging. In her book Discerning the Voice of God, Priscilla Shirer explores how Christians can recognize, understand, and respond to God’s guidance in their daily lives.

This topic dives into the key teachings from Priscilla Shirer’s book, exploring biblical principles, practical steps, and personal insights that help believers grow in their ability to hear and follow God’s voice.

Who is Priscilla Shirer?

Priscilla Shirer is a Christian author, speaker, and Bible teacher known for her deep, faith-based teachings. She has written several books on spiritual growth, prayer, and biblical study. She is also recognized for her role in the Christian film War Room, which emphasizes the power of prayer.

As the daughter of well-known preacher Tony Evans, Priscilla has dedicated her ministry to helping believers develop a closer relationship with God. One of her most influential works is Discerning the Voice of God, where she teaches how to identify God’s direction amidst life’s distractions.

Understanding the Concept of Hearing God’s Voice

Biblical Foundation

The Bible makes it clear that God speaks to His people. However, recognizing His voice requires spiritual sensitivity and obedience. Several scriptures highlight this truth:

  • John 10:27 – "My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me."

  • Isaiah 30:21 – "Whether you turn to the right or to the left, your ears will hear a voice behind you, saying, ‘This is the way; walk in it.’"

  • Hebrews 1:1-2 – "In the past, God spoke to our ancestors through the prophets… but in these last days, He has spoken to us by His Son."

From these verses, it is evident that God desires to communicate with His people. However, many struggle with understanding how He speaks.

Why Do People Struggle to Hear God’s Voice?

Priscilla Shirer explains that several factors block or hinder our ability to discern God’s guidance:

  1. Busyness and Distractions – The noise of daily life often drowns out God’s voice.

  2. Unbelief and Doubt – Some people question whether God still speaks today.

  3. Disobedience – Ignoring previous instructions from God can make it harder to hear new ones.

  4. Lack of Spiritual Maturity – A deep relationship with God requires spiritual growth and consistency.

By addressing these barriers, believers can position themselves to hear from God more clearly.

Key Lessons from Discerning the Voice of God

1. God’s Voice is Consistent with Scripture

One of the most important principles in discerning God’s voice is knowing that God never contradicts His Word.

  • Psalm 119:105 – "Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path."

  • 2 Timothy 3:16-17 – "All Scripture is God-breathed and useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting, and training in righteousness."

Priscilla emphasizes that any message or impression from God will always align with the Bible’s teachings. If something contradicts Scripture, it is not from God.

2. The Holy Spirit Guides and Confirms

The Holy Spirit plays a vital role in helping believers discern God’s voice. According to John 14:26, Jesus promised that the Holy Spirit would teach and remind us of His words.

Priscilla teaches that the Holy Spirit:

  • Convicts of sin and righteousness (John 16:8).

  • Leads believers into truth (John 16:13).

  • Confirms God’s direction through peace (Colossians 3:15).

By staying sensitive to the Holy Spirit, believers can grow in their ability to hear God’s guidance.

3. Obedience Strengthens Spiritual Hearing

Priscilla Shirer explains that obedience is key to recognizing God’s voice. The more we obey His instructions, the more clearly we will hear Him in the future.

  • James 1:22 – "Do not merely listen to the word… do what it says."

  • Luke 11:28 – "Blessed are those who hear the word of God and obey it."

When believers ignore God’s instructions, they risk spiritual dullness, making it harder to hear Him later.

4. God’s Voice Brings Peace, Not Confusion

One sign that God is speaking is the presence of peace. Even when God’s instructions are challenging, they will bring an inner confidence and assurance.

  • 1 Corinthians 14:33 – "God is not a God of disorder but of peace."

  • Philippians 4:7 – "The peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus."

If a decision leads to anxiety, confusion, or fear, it is wise to pause and pray before proceeding.

5. Prayer and Stillness Are Essential

In her book, Priscilla encourages believers to spend intentional time in prayer and silence to hear God’s voice.

  • Psalm 46:10 – "Be still, and know that I am God."

  • Jeremiah 33:3 – "Call to me, and I will answer you and tell you great and unsearchable things you do not know."

In today’s fast-paced world, quieting the mind and focusing on God can open the heart to His guidance.

Practical Steps to Discern God’s Voice

Priscilla Shirer provides practical ways to grow in discerning God’s voice:

  1. Read and Study Scripture Daily – The Bible is the foundation for recognizing God’s voice.

  2. Pray with Expectation – Ask God to speak, and be ready to listen.

  3. Seek the Holy Spirit’s Guidance – The Spirit confirms God’s direction.

  4. Practice Stillness and Silence – Remove distractions to hear God clearly.

  5. Look for Confirmation – God often confirms His messages through Scripture, people, and circumstances.

  6. Obey Promptly – When God speaks, respond with faith and obedience.

Testimonies of Hearing God’s Voice

Many believers who have studied Discerning the Voice of God have shared how it has transformed their spiritual journey. They report experiencing:

  • Greater clarity in decision-making.

  • More peace and confidence in following God’s guidance.

  • A deeper relationship with God through prayer and obedience.

Priscilla Shirer’s teachings remind believers that God is always speaking, and by aligning their hearts with Him, they can confidently follow His will.

Priscilla Shirer’s Discerning the Voice of God is a powerful resource for believers seeking to understand and follow God’s guidance. By relying on Scripture, the Holy Spirit, and obedience, anyone can grow in their ability to recognize and trust God’s voice.

As believers commit to prayer, stillness, and faith, they will experience the joy of walking closely with God and making decisions led by His wisdom.