Listening to God (by Joyce Huggett)

(Amazon UK link)

I very much liked the three books I had read by Joyce Huggett. She was a thoughtful Christian writer, and I knew something of her because she lived, for a while, in Cyprus, though I never met her. I didn’t expect any of her books to be currently in print, but put second-hand editions of one on my wishlist. I was very pleasantly surprised to be given a new edition of ‘Listening to God’ for Christmas. 

The byline on this book says that it’s the 30th anniversary edition of the ‘bestselling spiritual classic’. It’s been recommended by many writers on prayer and contemplation. The first edition was published in 1986, and it was something of a landmark at the time. In the notes at the end, on the anniversary edition, the author expresses great happiness that the boundaries between different strands of Christianity were much less obvious than they were in the 1980s. 

The purpose of the book is to encourage all Christians to spend more time in prayer, in particular in contemplative prayer. The idea of this sounds very positive to me; as an introvert, I need a lot of time on my own. Despite many decades of being a believer, and many prayers, I’m not good at sitting, and meditating, or contemplating. Partly this is because I don’t ‘see’ things with my eyes closed, partly, I suppose, because my mind is constantly active, wandering around all kinds of topics, ideas and thoughts.

The book is well-written, combining an account of the author’s journey into contemplative prayer with useful, Scripture-based teaching on the topic. She describes initial scepticism and reluctance, and has a whole chapter about being tempted to give up. And she makes it clear that her particular techniques and methods will not necessarily suit others. She recognises that some have very busy lives, looking after children or the elderly, or perhaps long work-days with little time for reflection. 

Joyce Huggett also says that, while she can spend an hour or more in contemplation, and needs to take retreats for days, sometimes several days, she knows that this would not be practical or possible for everyone. She encourages the reader to find ways that work for them to tune in to God, and to listen for his voice. She describes that, too: sudden insights from the Bible, a clear dream or vision, or perhaps an inner ‘aha’ moment or certainty that something should be done (or not done).

The distinction is drawn between different strands of Christianity, as perceived in the 1900s.  The author considered herself originally part of the evangelical persuasion, who believed God really only speaks through the Bible. She contrasts this with those of a charismatic persuasion, who believe that God speaks through signs and wonders, and sometimes audible voices. And she also mentions those of a contemplative background, who believe God speaks through nature, through inner promptings, and in silence. She says that each tradition can learn from the others, and that all three are important.

I found the book interesting to read, and quite encouraging, too. I like the author’s style, and her willingness to admit when she makes mistakes. She mentions how sinful behaviours or thoughts can make us feel as if God is a long way away, and she recounts some of her own problems in this area. Each section gives Bible references, personal insights, and general thoughts - and I thought it was an excellent book to peruse over the course of a couple of weeks.

It’s intended for Christians who would like to spend a bit more time with God, and to be better at listening, and I think it fulfils that aim. There’s no single path or checklist to follow, because we’re all different. Not every chapter or every suggestion will be relevant to everyone. But, overall, I would recommend this to anyone interested in the topic.

Review copyright 2026 Sue's Book Reviews