How can you hear God’s voice? This book explains

From the outset, When God Speaks (Chosen Books) by Joshua Giles sets out to demystify one of the most profound questions in Christian spirituality: How does God communicate with his people?

By blending theological reflection with personal testimony, Giles  aims to equip readers with practical tools and spiritual insights to discern the voice of God amid the noise and uncertainty of modern life.

At its core, Giles asserts that God is actively communicating with humanity through scripture, an audible voice, inner impressions, people, signs, wonders, visions and dreams. Each chapter unpacks these channels in detail, often drawing on the author’s own supernatural experiences and prophetic revelations to illustrate the principles at work.

Giles contends that every believer has the potential to hear from God and that the future God intends for humanity is already: “planted in us, waiting to be activated when God speaks”. He encourages readers to awaken their prophetic nature, partner with God to bring about practical solutions in their communities, and receive guidance about the future both personally and collectively. The book repeatedly returns to the idea that true spiritual receptivity requires faith, surrender, and obedience.

Giles insists that God’s voice is not just for a select few but is accessible to all who seek him earnestly. He also shares personal revelations about the future, positioning them as both warnings and encouragements for believers navigating uncertain times. He draws parallels between biblical figures such as Noah and Elijah and contemporary Christians, suggesting that the days ahead will require a similar closeness with God to discern his voice and purpose.

The book’s structure is clear and chronological, guiding readers step by step through the various modes of divine communication. Each section is punctuated with scriptural references, personal anecdotes, and practical advice for developing spiritual sensitivity. This logical progression makes the book accessible, particularly to readers new to the subject or those seeking encouragement in their faith journey.

At times, however, Giles’s explanations are repetitive and filled with jargon, taking away from the depth of his insights. Some of the deeper insights in the book are weakened by the author’s habit of exaggerating and veering off-topic. Trying to link DNA with Jacob’s ladder in Genesis is far-fetched and doesn’t support the main message of the book. These tangential topics risk confusing or misleading readers, particularly when not clearly grounded in scripture. Similarly, while Giles’s personal stories add authenticity, there are moments when his revelations lack sufficient biblical grounding. In a theological work, this can be problematic, as it leaves readers without a clear standard by which to assess the validity of his claims.

For those new to the prophetic or seeking inspiration to pursue a deeper relationship with God, When God Speaks offers a solid introduction and a heartfelt invitation to listen more closely to the divine voice. However, readers looking for a more sophisticated theological treatment or a robust study guide may find the book lacking in thoroughness.

When God Speaks: Thrive in Uncertain Times and Gain Confidence for Your Future is out now