You Can Hear the Voice of the Holy Spirit

How You Can Hear the Voice of God

 

If you are joining me here today from Proverbs 31 Ministries’ Encouragement for Today, welcome! I’d love to connect with you more on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Google+ and Pinterest. 

When I was a teen, I was so anxious to get my driver’s license.  Independence at last! When my mom compared approaching an intersection in a car to learning how to listen to the voice of the Holy Spirit, she had my attention.

Here was her simple and easy to understand comparison to learning to discern God’s voice with a street signal:

Heading somewhere new, your eyes naturally dart back and forth as you approach an intersection. Looking for landmarks and street signs as clues that you’re heading in the right direction, you proceed forward, all the while glancing up at the light for any changes.

If the light stays green, you keep going. Maybe you even speed up.

If the light turns yellow, you cautiously proceed. You are prepared to stop if it turns red.

If the light is red, you stop. Completely.

Throughout the Bible, God used a variety of means, or lights like our above comparison, to speak.

* His word

* Counsel from wise believers

* Dreams He inspired

* Words in songs like the Psalms

* Preaching and teaching from prophets, priests and teachers of His Word

* Words directly to the heart of the hearer

As you seek to hear the voice of God, keep your eyes and ears open; constantly looking for His direction. If you’re experiencing His peace and your decisions are consistent with His word, keep going! On the other hand, uneasiness or lack of direction might be God’s way of saying, “Slow down. Proceed with caution.” While the red light of your heart warns you to stop, whether that is a lack of peace or a road block in your plans; go no further.

When we learn to hear the voice of the Spirit, we can make daily decisions to obey, developing the fruit of the Spirit in our lives. That is exactly what Magnetic: Becoming the Girl He Wants is all about. We want to become magnetic; so full of the fruit of the Spirit, others are drawn to us!

Today, I’m giving away a signed copy of Magnetic. To enter for an opportunity to win, simply share in the comments below one young woman you would like to share Magnetic with. I will announce the winner next Monday!

 

Lynn

183 Comments

  1. Melissa Plets says:

    My daughter, Katie. As she struggles with an eating disorder, and tries to please the world with the way she appears in the outside, I am trying to show her that God sees her as beautiful exactly as she is! I could use an objective voice to tell her the truth of His love for her…the voice of “mom” just doesn’t carry the weight I wish it did! Praying for Katie, and all of our girls tonight…

    1. I would like to share it with my 13 year old stepdaughter Olivia.

  2. Lili Fulk says:

    Thank you very much for the opportunity to receive a copy of your book for free. I have found the Lord to be faithful to me in drawing me close to Himself, as I have been on a very difficult path for a long time now. Even now, I am unemployed. Still, what has been a very heart wrenching thing for me to endure is a pain filled relationship with my daughter. She used to want a close relationship with the Lord. She even used to seek Him and find Him as she sought guidance and comfort from Him. However, for a few years now she has been suffering through an extraordinarily difficult trial, one which she feels sure is a punishment from God. She is in so much emotional pain that she has not only distanced herself from God, but also from me. So, I am wondering if it might be in God’s plan for me to give her a copy of your book, so that she can find her way back to Jesus. Thank you again. Blessings, Lili

  3. Angie Allen says:

    I would love to share this study with my daughter! She just turned 18 and is embarking on studies for her career. But I myself have always struggled with discerning so I would love to study and walk this out with her as we both experience life changes and seek God’s will for our lives!!

  4. My granddaughter, Serena who turned 17 today as she faces decisions of where to go to college and what career to pursue.
    She is very shy and introvert. So very concern with her weight and appearance.
    Bless you and your work.
    Thank you for being an inspiration and guide to us in Jesup name.

  5. My daughter struggles with trying to meet the right guy for her only to get hurt over and over from guys who really don’t have her heart in mind. She loves with all her heart and gives expecting the love to be returned. She has become bitter and asks why can she not find someone to love her. I tell her I love her more than anything and God loves her but she doesn’t know how to focus on what God wants for her instead on what she wants. I think this book will help her and me both in learning how to focus more on God and less on what everyone else wants.

    1. Lynn Cowell says:

      This book would be perfect for her, Jenny. So would my first book, “His Revolutionary Love”. It teaches young women no man can fill the love gap in their heart. Not a dad, not a boyfriend … not even an amazing husband one day! Only Jesus. You can learn more under my tab “books”.

  6. My almost 14 year old daughter, Niné.

  7. I have a small youth sunday school group I teach that are all girls ages 3-13.

  8. Please give the book to Katie and Melissa. I am praying for them both to be encouraged and I believe God will speak through your book to do that Lynn. Hugs!
    Diane

  9. I would love a copy of this book for my thirteen-year-old niece, Faith. She has a heart for God but is pulled and tempted by the world when it comes to receiving attention from boys. With the poor decisions she has been making recently, I’m concerned she is going to do something irreversible that will severely change the course of her life.
    Her and I had very similar, difficult childhood circumstances and I feel my heart is connected to hers in an intentional, divine way. I do what I can to minister to her over the phone and via Skype, but with her living in another state, I feel I’m not doing enough. I think navigating this book together and connecting through the content would be a great reminder to her that I’m right here with her along the journey.
    Thanks for all your encouragement!

  10. I would share it with both of my daughters. Being a teenager is hard and they both could use guidance and encouragement, and so could I!

  11. My daughter, Taryn. She is living the busy teenage life – doing well in it with all the bumps and curves. I believe reminding her to listen for the Holy Spirit is the number one way I can guide her in her spiritual growth.

  12. My goddaughter and namesake is someone I would like to share this book with. She is just beginning to grow in her relationship with Christ. I’m excited about the things God is doing in her life!

  13. I would share with My daughter Sara as she starts a new job after college and is in the early stages of a new relationship.
    Praying she keeps God first in all situations.

  14. I would share it with the mother of my granddaughters. She could use guidance as she raises 2 small girls in this world of unknowns and so could i.

  15. Kristi Edwards says:

    I would love to share this book with both of my daughters. They are 11 & 15. Any help in guiding them with an insight using God’s Word would be great! I try to guide them right, but there are times I question my guidance.

  16. I would first read it for myself and then share it with a friend who is going through an uncertain time in her life and desperately needs to hear the words of the Holy Spirit and be comforted by its Hope. Personally, I am at a crossroads and am uncertain what exactly God wants me to do. I wish I knew how to discern the Hily Spirits prompting a and guidance.

    Thanks for listening and thank you for your encouraging words in your blog and on p31 today.

  17. Niomi Thigpen says:

    My sister and my two friends since high school who live out of state. It would be a great way to stay connected to one another because being without friends can get lonely at times.

  18. Linda Gallinger says:

    Would like to share this with my granddaughter Katie as she lives in a very uncomfortable home environment. I am so afraid this will damage her perception of a truly beautiful adult life of love and of God’s wonderful teachings. I want her to know that God has a better plan for her. Thank you!

  19. Belinda Jividen says:

    I have 2….my granddaughters… They are triplets with their brother. Not only them their mother, my daughter also. Have already seen u will b in their area in 2016 so I’m making plans to be there & go with them or talk my daughter into going. I think it will be great for the 3 of them

  20. Staci Thomas says:

    I would love to share Magnetic with my daughter, Sophia. She just turned 12 and has two older brothers ages 13 and 14. I think it would be a great way to spend some Mother/Daughter time together. 🙂

  21. I would like to share this book with my teenage daughter, Caroline. she is growing in faith and believe this book would be a great way to encourage her to pursue God.

  22. I would love to share this with my daughters and also in small group with the girls at our church and the summer camps we get to minister at. Thank you

  23. I would share this with both my daughters. My oldest struggles with depression and low self esteem. She has made several bad choices and I think this would be a great tool for her. My youngest just turned 13 last week so this is a good time to start.

  24. I would love for this book to go to my son’s girlfriend Faith. She is making some life altering decisions at this time. She needs to hear the Holy Spirit during this difficult time.

  25. I would like a copy for my daughter. She is starting to understand she is a sinner in need of a savior and very soon will ask Jesus into her heart. I would love to have a book about listening to the Holy Spirit as one of our first studies together. Thank you!

  26. Marlyn reeves says:

    Thank you for your words of wisdom. I would like to learn to listen and share the Holy Spirit as I learn healthy boundaries with my daughter and others.

  27. I would love to share this book with my 15 year old daughter, Taylor, and use it as a tool to open her eyes to the young woman God designed her to be!

  28. Robin Jeffries says:

    I would like to share it with my Sr. Hi School SS class. Our leader moved to another state and we need a new study that I’d be able to lead.

    1. Lynn Cowell says:

      Robin – this book is so easy to go through. In the back of the book is a leadership guide. Also, each chapter has questions woven through out and quizzes for the girls to take. It is fun and great teaching all rolled into one. You’ll also find a video and questions you can use on dating on my freebies page. Just click on freebies for more.

      Thank you for being willing to allow God to use you to make a real difference in the lives of young women!

  29. I would love to have this book to share with my daughter! Sidnie is 10 years old and is beginning to experience the”girl drama” you speak of in your book. I think back to this time in my life and I can imagine how helpful it would have been to share something like this book with my mom!

  30. My daughter is who I would share this book with. She is a college freshman and I want her to be Gods girl and not the worlds.

  31. Pamela =) says:

    I would love to share this with our college-aged friend, Megan. She’s just transferred schools and moved to the big city and living in an apartment for the first time. She loves Jesus and this would be wonderful as she continues to journey closer to him.

  32. Ivette Drumgool says:

    As i enter my 12 year of homeschooling my daughters, i love for them to start our day in the WORD!

  33. I would share it with my daughter and several of her friends. As the entered Middle School this Fall, their moms and I have attempted to communicate the need to be true to who they are and what they believe in the midst of a ton of cultural pressures. My prayer has been that they will learn to recognize the voice of God in their lives and the nudging of the Holy Spirit! This would be a great tool for them!

    1. Lynn Cowell says:

      Get the moms and girls together and start a group, going through Magnetic together! It would be fun and powerful! There are free tools to help you know how to start a group. Just go to my “freebies” page and download the free leadership guide for His Revolutionary Love. The first part is all about how to start a small group for young women. I want to help in any way I can!

  34. I would share this book with my daughter. She is an 18 year old suffering with anxiety and depression. This book would be very helpful to both of us.

    1. Lynn Cowell says:

      Lisa – my 18 year old has also suffered from anxiety and depression. Be sure to share with your girl, my girl’s writings on depression. Just go to my home page and under the search bar put in “Mondays with Madi”. They will come up. She would find them SO helpfuL!

  35. I would love to share it with my daughter Katryna as she embarks young adulthood and all the challenges that come with it. I know that’s all part of life and growing up, but I pray she seek God out in all she does and pray for discernment to hear HIS voice and not the noise of the world!

  36. Christine says:

    i would love to share this book with my daughter.

  37. Lori Ellwanger says:

    I would share this book with my best friend’s daughter, Zoe. She just began her Freshman year in high school and I believe this book would be a great source of encouragement and help as she is navigating new waters.

  38. This year has been a tough year for my oldest daughter and I. I would love to share this with her as this is her last year of high school and I want to impact her as much as possible before I lose her.

  39. Jane from SC says:

    It would be our precious daughter. She has so many decisions to make now that she lives out of state and on her own, not married. This would be perfect for her!

  40. God has recently lead me into teaching 4-6th grade girls. A ministry I feel pretty inadequate in, but know that that is where God placed me. I am learning so much about seeking the truth in God’s word instead of just “reading the stories”. There is so much God has to say to each of us through every word of scripture. God has also laid on my heart a burden to help my girls to see how much they are loved by our Awesome, Holy God. What a treasure they are to Him. The world is pulling so hard on them, and they must know the truth of God’s love and faithfulness! My prayer has been, Lord how to I help them to know your love and develop a hunger to seek after you! Our lessons from the Israelites journey from Egypt to the promise land are rich with lessons on the Characteristics of God, His Faithfulness, Might, Tender love, etc….the Israelites only need to trust and to obey and all God’s blessings were theirs. To bring these same truths to apply to my girls lives today is my prayer!!

  41. Maria James says:

    I would like to share this with my sister who was abandoned by her husband. He left her and my nephew and is now living a homosexual lifestyle in another state. I believe she needs to hear from the Holy Spirit now more than ever for comfort and for a sense of direction as she looks for a new job and tries to raise a son on her own. Thank you!

  42. I would share this with the middle school girls I teach during Sunday school. I could also share it with their parents as a resource. Middle school is such a tough age for the parent and child, so the resource would be a great addition to their Bible study. And even though my daughter is only four, I would love to use this as a resource for encouragement and training for her.

  43. I would give this book to my 12 year old daughter. The lies of the enemy continually sneak in … I’m fat, I don’t have friends, I’m not good enough, I’m not good anything, etc. My daughter and I continually talk, read, pray, and spend time together revealing the truths the Lord speaks into her. I would love to share this book together with her.

    1. Lynn Cowell says:

      This one would be good, Carla. My first book, “His Revolutionary Love” would really be a great one. It empowers young women to build their self-worth on the one love that will never leave them – Jesus.

  44. Christine D. says:

    I would love to share with my daughters, who need to hear your great message, from someone other than myself!

  45. Catherine Brewer says:

    I would give a copy to our youth group leader Keisha Peterson. This message is the perfect word for our current lessons

    1. Lynn Cowell says:

      Yes it would, Catherine! There are also free resources to go along with Magnetic under my tab “freebies” here on my website.

  46. I would share it with my daughter – Emily

  47. With my oldest daughter, Elizabeth.

  48. Carol Mullarkey says:

    I would share it with my bff who is struggling right now to understand Jesus and what it takes to have a relationship with him. She is captivated, relying by her intuition and emotion to lead her. I have tried to explain the work of the Holy Spirit but feel that I have failed miserably. I would read it first to help direct my conversations with her. Then I would read it with her. She is easily intimidated by things that are new to her and I would really like to share it with her. .

  49. Laura Lane says:

    Emily is our 14 year old granddaughter who so wants to follow after God. She has been sheltered pretty much, home schooled & now is attending a charter school.She loves to read & what could be better besides the bible
    that will help guide her in what relates to her right now in this season of her very tender time.

  50. Laura Fincke says:

    Thank you so much for your words of wisdom. I would love to share your book with my family and a few of my friends who could really use some encouragement.

  51. I would love to share Magnetic with my mother in law. She has been in the hospital in the ICU for a month and still has a long road ahead of her but she is finally on the road to recovery!

  52. I would share this book with my 3 girls – 2 daughters and 1 stepdaughter. Spending the time together as a newly blended family, and encouraging them with His word is something we look forward to. I would love the “girl time” and to have additional tools to be a wise woman to these precious daughters of Christ.

    1. Lynn Cowell says:

      Teresa – I absolutely love this idea! No better way to bond then through God’s word!

  53. Suzanne Bennett says:

    I would love to read this book with my daughter who is a senior in HS.

  54. I would love to share this book with my 8th grade girl, Annie.

    The beginning of the school year is so hard….So many voices demanding to be heard. So many labels and pressures.

    I’d like for her to calmly request, pray and listen for Holy Spirit guidance.

    1. Lynn Cowell says:

      Oh yes! To learn to hear His voice early in life. Just imagine the hurt and sorrow that could be avoided and the joy that could be ushered in as young women learn to listen and obey His voice at a young age. Absolutely powerful and beautiful!

  55. This would be awesome to share with my girls (14 & 17) to help us grow together in Hus Word & become magnetic in our walk with Him!!

  56. Hi, thanks for your awesome message today!! I would absolutely love to share this book with my friend, Ashlie. She is one of my younger friends, and I believe this would be a fantastic project to share together and grow as friends of faith!

    1. Lynn Cowell says:

      Suzanne, I love your heart, “to share together and grow as friends of faith”. That is what I pray Magnetic is – a tool bringing God’s word in a way that brings friendship with God and with each other!

  57. Marty Kline says:

    I would share this with my daughter Megan.

  58. Lindsey S. says:

    My sister in law.

  59. Yvette Hardy says:

    I would love to share it with a precious child I know named Victoria! Just started college and has her whole life ahead of her! Love this girl!

    1. Lynn Cowell says:

      Yvette – young women so need others, willing to come along side them, listen, love and boldly share God’s truth!

  60. Kimberly B says:

    I would like to share this book with my daughter Kasha. She and I could use this Holy Spirit teaching. Thank you for all you do.

  61. Rose Marolf says:

    I would share it with my daughter Danielle….

  62. I have three teenage daughters who all struggle with the demands of living in the world yet knowing in their hearts they need to put God first. This sounds like the sort of book they would willingly participate in. To be free of the stress of trying to please the world and instead focus on God would be such a huge blessing for them. To learn this in their teenage years would set them free to live the life God has planned for them.

    1. Lynn Cowell says:

      That is exactly the heart behind why I wrote it! “free to live the life God has planned for them”. Oh I pray they will be!

  63. I would love to share this with my daughters.

  64. I would share this with my best friend from college Tracey!

  65. Hi Lynn and whomever else might read this! May God bless you this day! I loved your devotional for Proverbs 31 today. I haven’t read your book yet, but from the description I think it would be perfect for my 16 year old sister. She is the last child at home with my parents (there are 12 kids, so it’s kind of a big deal) and they are getting ready to move for the first time in 37 years. Needless to say, is a very emotional time anyway, just bring 16, but add to it moving as a junior in high school and the stress my parents are under, I would love to just help encourage her to continue to follow and emulate Christ. Thank you! God be with you!

    1. Lynn Cowell says:

      Mary, you are right! What a stressful situation! Holy Spirit, we ask you to intervene in Mary’s family. Bring peace to every crevice of this change. Go ahead of them and bring new friends; favor every where they turn. I pray that Mary’s sister will be able to see Your incredible love for her through this situation and that you will give her the desires of her heart. Desires she doesn’t even know to pray for! In your name, Amen

  66. Angela Dean says:

    I would love to share this with my oldest daughter. She is a senior this year.

  67. Laurel Wycoff says:

    I’d like to share it with my daughter Amy and her friend Maddy

  68. I will love to share this book with my friends daughter who is 12 soon to be 13. My friend is a single mom trying her best to navigate parenthood and keeping the family together all by herself. In balancing so much at times what’s most important (children), gets put in the background especially if they are well behaved. I am beginning to notice her little girl searching for answers and finding new interest,so before she takes on a world’s view of who she thinks she should be,I would love to share this book with her to introduce her to who she truly is in God.

  69. Danielle G says:

    I would love to share this with my friend Jen as she is struggling to discern what God wants for her life.

  70. Hillary Garrett says:

    I would like to share this with my daughter. She is 11 and was recently saved and we have been reading the word together . I emphasize on living by example and being the better person in all situations. I think this could help me help her understand things better.

  71. I’d love to read this and share with my granddaughters who have not been
    with their mother in 31/2 years due to her addictions. Then I would save it for my granddaughter
    who will be turning 4 next month. I’m unable to have a relationship with her as her father is controlling
    her visitations. I am keeping a journal and memorabilia for her to present when she is 18 and I can visit with
    her if she wants.

  72. Dawn Parks says:

    My best friend Jackie!! We are both on our own journey to freedom and are seeking God’s guidance and love! Thank you!!

  73. I would love to share this book and work together with my oldest daughter who is 22. She had been previously engaged and then broke it off as he started to become controlling. She had grown up loving the Lord but instead of taking the time to deal with the hurt that came from that she started a relationship with the first guy that gave her attention after only a month and this relationship is not of the Lord. He has no interest in Him and she has deteriorated to someone I don’t even know anymore yet “he is so good to her”. It breaks my heart because I know God has so much more for her but she refuses to see it at this time. I pray for her and for this bondage to be broken and I continue to love her where she is.

    1. Lynn Cowell says:

      Jesus, we ask you to intervene in this relationship in a powerful way. Bring every hidden thing of darkness into the light. Open her eyes – using every avenue You can and will to speak to her. Set her free to experience Your healing and restoration, Jesus. Amen

    2. If you do not have a copy, get POWER OF THE PRAYING PARENT by Stormy O’Martien. The prayers allow you to personalize them to each of your children. It doesn’t matter how old your daughter is, you can pray these prayers FOR her. Declare the words out loud, especially the prayer to bring Godly friends and role models into your child’s life. Remember that St. Monica prayed 19 years for her son to find Christ. Her son, St. Augustine, became a faithful follower of Christ and a force for the faith. Now that is a powerful praying parent! I will pray for your daughter too.

  74. I would share it with my daughters and there are a couple girls from church I would share it with too. Myself also.

  75. Elaine M. says:

    I would share this my daughter, who just started public high school this year as a freshman. I want her to become stronger in her faith and have a desire for God, like she did when she was little. Thank you.

  76. Dinorah R says:

    I would like to share this book with my friend Debbie Martinez since she has recently moved away from her homeland and church, and because she is an intercessor. Blessings!

  77. Peggy Yates says:

    I would love to share this book with my 14 yr old daughter. She is a freshman in high school & experiencing the pressures of everyday teen life. I continually remind her to keep her focus on God & who He wants her to be. It’s tough when so many try to define themselves by what they possess and who is in their close circle of friends.

  78. Mykia Richards says:

    I would want to share this with my cousin who is in middle school. She is struggling with bullying because she is heavier than most of her peers. I want her to have the self esteem to know that God is all that matters so she won’t succumb to the fatal results bullying can have on young girls. I think this book will be able to help her realize how special she is to God and how to remain close to Him through the Holy Spirit.

  79. I would love to share this with my daughter. She is 17 and has pulled away completely from the Lord.

  80. Adrianna Tucket says:

    I would really love to share this book with my best friend, my sister. She is such an inspiration to me with her faith. She inspires me to be closer to Jesus everyday.

  81. Kandice Moore says:

    I would love to share this my daughter Kyra is about to turn 13. She is thankfully nothing like me when I was that age and I’d like to keep it that way. I want her to know God is with her in everything she does and he is the only one she needs to please not her friends or some cute boy. That and it would be really nice to get some one on one time with her.

  82. Raelene D says:

    My 14 year old daughter.

  83. I would share it with my daughter.

  84. Anne-Marie says:

    I would share the book with my best friend Katie. A few years ago she walked away from God and her marriage. God has amazingly brought her back and changed her heart. He is restoring her and healing her but she’s having a hard time discerning his voice always, knowing the direction He is leading her now and the plans He has for her ahead. It would be a great study for me and her to do together:)

  85. Jaime Boudreaux says:

    My daughter Madison.

  86. I have a young woman in my life who lost her mom at an early age. This girl it’s now 24, just recently moved out on her own, and attending a medical college in an advanced nursing program. She recently text me to say she fills overwhelmed, desolate, and maybe she bit off more than she can chew. She despises living alone. I was able to visit with her this past weekend to try to encourage her. I gave her the name of an excellent church near her that has small groups (which she was searching for, to get connected). I feel that this book would be a wonderful influence in her life, as well as aiding in guiding her and encouraging her.

  87. I Love this! I have been searching for a book for my teen daughter, she is almost 17 and has been homeschooled her whole life. She loves the Lord and is trying so hard to do right but as a mother I see actions and struggles where she is struggling now that she is working out in the world to still be that modest, Godly young woman. I would love to give her this book to go through with me to teach her to listen to Him and not the world! To hold onto His words even when it seems like those girls have it all.

  88. I would love to share this book with my daughter make it something we can study together. I want her to be confident in the Lord in who he says she is. And not feel that she needs to seek it elsewhere.

  89. My daughter Mattie is 19 and a sophomore at University of Kansas. The school is a diverse melting pot of cultures, religions, sexual orientations, etc… Christ is definitely not in her days as she is buffeted on all sides with worldly, and at times dangerous thoughts and sights. I tell her every day that I am praying for her and try to encourage her relationship with God. But at this point, I’m not a voice she listens to – unfortunately. Please pray for her.

  90. Brenda W. says:

    My 23 year old daughter who walked away from a bad relationship over two year ago with a six month old son. She raising our now two and half year old grandson without help from the father who is 7 years older than her and like to make her feel like she’s nothing when he gets him every other weekend. She’s very active in church and is getting her life back in order. She has strong family support and we share Spiritual Quiet Times together. I am so proud of the Women she is becoming. But there are times when she goes through the “What if I…..”

  91. Tammy Dobson says:

    I would like to give this to My daughter 🙂 She will be leaving for college in the fall.
    Smiles!

  92. Nancy Martinez says:

    My beautiful niece Shaniah Martinez!

  93. I would share it with my daughter who is in middle school

  94. I would like to share this book with my daughter. My relationship with my daughter has been somewhat “strained” and “stressed” throughout her middle school and high school years and mostly due to my lack of positive role modeling, actions as her mother, which I am working on now with the help of the Holy Spirit. Due to my weakness in communicating effectively with my daughter, she rarely listens to anything I have to say or any of my opinions. This is very hard to see, on a daily basis, as a mother who truly loves her more than she knows.
    My concern for my daughter now and what I am seeing unfold before my very eyes is a young lady who is very smart, but not wise. She thinks she is wise but in fact is slowly turning away from her faith through worldly opinions and beliefs through various famous philosophers. She is now a junior in HS and “exploring” many philosophies and beliefs through studies in HS and early college. Unfortunately, some of the studies she is pursuing are “worldly” views and are leading her to a self-righteous and self-affirming belief systems and new ways of thinking. She is very interested in these philosophies and studies from many famous philosophers such as Socrates, Plato, and 20th century Ayn Rand (HS reading list-“Anthem” and “Atlas Shrugged”)

    I would like to read this book you are promoting with her so I can open up some discussion about what God’s plan for her life is through the leading of the Holy Spirit. She has been brought up in church, sings with the praise band in youth and has attended youth summer camps since she was a little girl, but now has many questions and doubts about her faith and the foundation she has been raised on. I slowly see her turning away from her faith and the church and looking to other worldly views and opinions of who she is becoming based on her own self-reliance.
    I see these views and opinions captivating her and clamoring for her attention. She loves to debate about these philosophies vs the faith and has become somewhat “proud” and “arrogant” when in debate with others who do not hold the same view as her and her new found “knowledge.” My fear is that she is heading in a very dangerous direction (through her interests in studying and being around others who share her same views) in her quest for the truth through the knowledge she desires.
    I slowly see her turning away from her faith and pushing aside the foundation of truth being pulled in to a more worldly view of what wisdom is.
    I’m interceding in prayer for her daily to have discernment in what the world is telling her “truth” and “wisdom through knowledge” is. I’m also praying that the Holy Spirit speaks to her in a very powerful way so she will know without a doubt from Whom true wisdom and knowledge comes which is God through the guidance of His Word, the Bible.

    1. Lynn Cowell says:

      Mandy – you are a wise mother to not just ignore these new interests. Our daughters are bright and intelligent. They want to know and not just be spoon-fed what hey are supposed to believe. If we do not become proactive and help them to make their faith their own, other lines of thought will become more attractive and we’ll watch our girls walk away from their faith. Don’t hear me wrong – we cannot make our kids believe, but we can help them in this stage of exploration. We can demonstrate that we are not afraid of their questions. Questions are not bad. Questions are the beginning of making their faith their own.

      She might like to go through a book with you that has an apologetics angle. One that challenges her thinking – it sounds like that is what she is craving. We need those in this generation who know what the Bible says not just what they have been told. She might really enjoy if you meet her there – on her intellectual turf and this may open up a whole need area of relationship for the two of you.

      My kids constantly challenge me. The what’s and why behind what I think. Sometimes, it is exhausting, but mostly, it makes me a stronger believer and follower of Christ.

  95. Dena Haeffner says:

    I would love to share this with my daughter Sophie, but I’m certain I will learn a few things myself!

  96. I think this would make for a great study group with my best friends and our teen daughters.

  97. My daughter who just started her freshman year of high school and will be 15 soon. Thanks!

  98. This book is calling out to me. I have taught middle and high school (and homeschool) on and off for 30 years. I’ve seen so many girls struggle to be ….more…the “it” girl…the world’s image of what a teen girl should be. When I first ran across the title to this book, I felt I was supposed to teach it/ share in some capacity. Still not exactly sure when/where….but I do know that my own daughter needs the message desperately. My husband (her father) died suddenly when my daughter was 14 and in the throes of awkward puberty-ness. Three years later, she still struggles deeply with lack of confidence, making friends, shyness, self-image….I’m trying to teach her to base all on Christ, praying that she will gather her strength and worth from Him…I think that perhaps going through the book with her, just the two of us, may give more weight to my “cheerleading”.

    1. Lynn Cowell says:

      Pattie – I’m so very sorry for the pain your family has experienced with loosing your husband. The void we can feel is powerful. When I wrote Magnetic, my own daughters were in high school. I included a leadership guide in the back for a mom to go through with her girl, just like I did with mine. It is a great tool for building confidence as well as building your relationship with each other.

  99. I have served in missions overseas work for 15 years now, and would love to share this book with several teenage MKs that our family works with. I would also love to read through it or share it with my own daughter who is a pre-teen. Your words of encouragement and straight-forward, truth-speaking devotions have been a blessing to me- thank you!

  100. My daughter, McKenna. She’s 20 & in college. The rest of the family recently moved away from the city where we all lived together. She’s lonely & loves Jesus but could really use encouragement. We both love His Revolutionary Love!

  101. Kandice Moore says:

    I would love to share this book with my daughter Kyra she is about to turn 13. Thankfully she is nothing like me when I was her age and I’d like to keep it that way. I want her to know God is always with her and the He is the only one she needs to please not her friends or some cute boy. I would also love to have something meaningful to do with her one on one that she will keep with her forever.

  102. Laura Sovine says:

    I’d share this with my niece, Emma, who just turned 13. This would be a perfect resource as she enters her teen years! Thank you!

  103. My sister-in-law. She is going through a stage in life where she needs to learn to listen to the holy spirit and be guided by God instead of her worldly ways.

  104. I would love to share this book with my niece who turns 16 on October 1st ( would make a great birthday gift! ) and I would also love to share it with my own daughter who will be 16 in April!

  105. I would LOVE to give this book to my daughter. She just received her master’s degree in Christian marriage and family counseling and will be working for a women’s ministry in Teen Challenge as well as a family/child therapist at a local church. She also just began leading a freshment girls small group in her own church and mentors another girl in her church one on one. This book would be so perfect for her as she begins this new journey in her life in these relationships!!

  106. I would love to share magnetic with my (youngest of my five) 16 y.o. daughter. I want to continue to encourage her to listen and obey the Holy Spirit. I believe at her age she can probably be more in tune to things Spiritual even though she might think she has too much on her plate with school, volleyball, and work. I keep telling her that she can do all things. Thanks so much.

  107. My heart is full of discernment as you said “uneasiness or lack of direction might be God’s way of saying, “Slow down. Proceed with caution.” While the red light of your heart warns you to stop, whether that is a lack of peace or a road block in your plans; go no further”. My 15 year old and her core group of friends and mom’s are called the fearsome foursome as we try to all stand tall for God. These same Moms and daughters are struggling right now as the girls are all on a volleyball team and have met a very challenging coach. This has caused a dark time in our lives in which we, daughters and moms, are struggling with challenges and decisions that don’t seem fair and right from authority that we are to follow. All this without getting caught up in gossip and stinking thinking that is tearing down a team that should instead be lifted up. I prayed to God this morning as I see my daughter’s and my heart and many others with a lack of peace, to lift us up from this dark path. I came across your proverbs 31, book and blog, and I could tell God was working on answering my prayers to be able to be lifted, and in turn lift up the girls, starting at a team dinner at my house tonight. Thank you for your blog, that I felt God led me to. Our library doesn’t have your book but I am hoping that our church has either your book or a small group presentation of magnetic that the moms and girls might be able to do as a small group study. God bless your work. Please pray for us to have discernment that this is a season in life that God is allowing us to tested in order to come through with flying colors for God and not let the devil get a hold on our thoughts or actions. Thanku

    1. Lynn Cowell says:

      Hi Kathy – I’ve definitely walked where you’ve walked! Magnetic would be a great book to empower the girls to focus their energies in the right place – in becoming the girl reaching her fullest potential in Christ!

  108. Maria Alejandra says:

    I would love to share your wonderful book with my daughter Gabriella, a beautiful 24 year old young woman!

  109. Andrea Owens says:

    I would love to share this book with my daughter Haily who is 14 and a freshman at a large high school. I would love for her to hear God’s message from someone other than mom. She has expressed how she often feels burdened knowing she make conscious decisions not to follow the wide path as others her age do. Often times she take it out on her family. I want her to know that the one true love she needs is God’s unconditional love. Your book will allow us to connect and experience God’s message. She can pass the book on to her younger sister, Isabella.
    Thank you for today’s post.

  110. Teri Baumann says:

    God has definitely been leading me to your blog. I have been praying and seeking God to lead me to the exact Bible Study I needed to work through with My daughter and my granddaughter. I know this is the one. I would love to receive a copy. My daughter is going through a bitter divorce and just lost her job 2 weeks ago because of it. We are all going through great emotional pain.

    1. Lynn Cowell says:

      Teri – my heart hurts as I read of divorce’s effect on your family. Father – heal & restore. Amen

  111. Lisa Anger says:

    I would share this book with my daughter, Rebekah as she enters her last year of middle school.

  112. Rachel McIntire says:

    I would share this book with my friend, Tara.

  113. I would like to gift this book to my dear friend Shablie Garcia. Just last night she was sharing with me a word of God to her in a very specific situation about letting God be her guidance. The devotion this morning reminded me of our conversation last night and i think it would be a great blessing to her!

  114. In my side of the family, only my husband and I were Christians. I have one niece that is now Christian, but that’s it. And I have a daughter. I’m sure your book will be a blessing for us all.
    Thank you!

  115. Stephanie says:

    I would love to have this book for my daughter as she is away at college with so many outside influences and decisions that she may face. Waiting to hear from the Holy Spirit is something we all need to learn how to do.

  116. Kristine Smith says:

    I would like love this book. I can share with my 2 young daughters and there friends to grow with god. I would share with with friends children as well. I want to grow them to be children of god. Who God so loves. Thank you!

  117. I would share this book with my 14 year old daughter. She is being baptized this weekend and I am so proud of her decision. I think this book would be beneficial to both of us!
    Thank you for all you do.

  118. anita sue york says:

    I am sorry to say at this time in my life, I feel the need for this book for myself. At first I thought, I must put someone to share with down, but I am at a point where I really need to be able to listen and hear the Holy Spirit. I am a 69 year old preachers kid. I was raised in the Southern Baptist Church. My parents are now both deceased. I felt called to a ministry over 2 years ago, was in process of getting it set up with help of a minister in Ca. I felt I was to move back to Fresno, ca. for this ministry. I was taken for several thousand $ from this minister, and he is now no longer in Ca. All was lost. I am struggling with what God wants from me, and where he wants me. I lived in Ca from 1965 till 2006, when I moved here to be with and help my parents. I am trying to sell my house here in Mo. and find property in Ca. My funds are depleting fast, and I have just come to a stand still. I am in need of a closer walk with my Lord and savior Jesus Christ, and maybe your book could help me with, guidance, and how to truly hear Gods voice. Thank you for giving me and others the opportunity to get a copy of your book.

    1. Lynn Cowell says:

      Hello Anita, my heart breaks reading your story. The fact that it took place in the church is awful. Lord, please meet Anita’s needs right where she is. Thank you for your faithfulness! Amen

  119. Sherri Smith says:

    I would share it with my 16 year old daughter, Gracen, who I love using your wisdom to help grow in Christ.

  120. Ash Davenport says:

    Your blog this morning has definitely blessed to me. I am a mother of a 13-year-old daughter who seems to think she knows it all! She thinks she has everything under control, from school work, housework church work, friendships, etc.. She doesnt need my guidance (so she thinks) , after all I’m just mom! However I am constantly reminded of the gift she is however I am constantly reminded of the gift she is. So graciously favored my husband and trusted us with her. I am charged with raising a God-fearing , God loving young woman who will be sensitive to the voice of the Holy Spirit, and know the path that He has chosen for her. As a mother I don’t profess to know all and frankly I need help. I believe your book well help me and my daughter. I believe it wil help me grow as a mother and a woman of God and help me to continue to pour into my daughter and she realises and discovers her destiny gene!

  121. I would love to share your book with my soon-to-be daughter-in-law, Trish. She is a beautiful young woman & this book could answer many questions she (& I) have! Thanks!

  122. I would give this my 17 year old niece. Thank you!

  123. I would like to share it with my daughters Darrellka and Mila. They are spirit filled, anointed children of God. Both lift you up to the Lord in praise, worship and song. These young ladies are truly a blessing to everyone that comes in contact and encounters their loving spirit. They have blessed me in just knowing that their taking of their introduction to our God, the Son, and Holy Spirit to a great level that has inspired me and others tremendously. I love them both and pray that their territory continues to increase.

  124. I’d love to read this book with my 14 year old daughter and my 16 year old daughter. I want to enjoy these last couple of years that we have together before they are off on their own and equip them with the knowledge of the Holy Spirit to guide them along their way.

  125. I would love to share this with my stepdaughters (18 and 15) as well as my own daughter (4) as she grows! I’m sure I would learn quite a bit from this book as well that would help me to be a better example to young women in my life.

  126. Connie Ellis says:

    I would share this book with Emily French as she works with teenage goes in a after school program

  127. Michelle Hammond says:

    My sweet, beautiful niece Karly. I have two sons – so, she is the closest thing I have to a daughter. Would love to share this with her!!!

  128. Tiffany Harper says:

    I would very much love to share this study with my 16 year old daughter, Alexa. We just moved to a different state and are starting over. Divorce and teen-age bullying were two main reasons why we moved. What a great opportunity for us to grow stronger with each other and in Christ together.

  129. I enjoyed your words today about listening to the Holy Spirit and discerning His direction for our lives. The illustration of using the traffic signals is a true measure of how to hear and obey the way to “drive” in living. I remember one time when I felt a caution in my spirit. I shrugged it off and as a consequence, I received a parking ticket! I now listen when I look and listen as I encounter decisions that may impact my life. Your book, Magnetic, can be utilized in my living and give wisdom to guide me each day.

  130. I would share this with a dear friend who is going through some very difficult changes in her life. I think the book would definitely help her to proceed carefully and definitely discern the voice of God.

  131. Hi Lynn, I would share this book with friends, family and really anyone who wants to learn to hear the Holy Spirit and become closer to God. For me, I find myself struggling to walk a better path and get closer to God; I want a closer more personal relationship with God. I want to learn to hear the Holy Spirit speak to me and help guide me towards better decisions. I like many have often thought I was on the right path, or making the right decision only to find myself entrapped, or in the wrong lane so to speak. I study and read my bible and I pray, but I am looking to learn how to pray more substanial and meaningful prayers. I would appreciate the opportunity to have another resource at hand to assist myself and any other person I know with this journey; I believe this is something of which I can use to help me in my daily search for more wisdom and understanding to live a more productive and Godly life. Thanks for the opportunity…peace and love

  132. Heather K says:

    Hi Lynn,

    I needed to hear this message so much today. Thank you so much for this devotion. I would love to receive a copy of Magnetic to state with my preteen and teenage daughters. Blessings to you and your ministry.

    God bless,
    Heather

  133. I have two teenage daughters, 19 and 15. We want to do a Bible study together this fall before my 19-year old heads to college in January. This sounds awesome!

  134. I would love to share this with my daughter. She is driven, smart, beautiful, and caring. This would be a great study to help her focus on listening for God’s direction rather than the worlds.

  135. Hello!

    I would love to receive a copy of this book to share with my daughter who is one month short of turning 14. She truly loves the Lord and at the moment shares everything with me. I really cherish our mother/daughter talks. I would love to have a guide to share with her to teach her how to hang on to her faith and not follow “the crowd” as is expected.

    Thank you and God Bless!
    Molly

  136. So curious. Felt like was led to you and the book?

  137. I would love to win this book to share with my 14 year old daughter. I pray daily for salvation for her. She is a wonderful, caring girl, but I know that the most important thing is that she invites Jesus into her heart. This would be a great book for us to read together!

  138. Sue Benoit says:

    Thank you for the opportunity to win a copy of this book. My daughter is 16. She’s in high school and focused on drama. She’s been having a hard time focusing on God or even getting herself to pray. She’s magnetic to the basic teen drama, but need to be magnetic to God and His word. Thanks again for considering us.

  139. Keona Banks says:

    I would love to share the study with my daughters. I have 3 girls at home ages 16-19 and all 4 of us can learn to hear from God.

  140. Elizabeth Celestino says:

    For Kaylee and Katelynn, Alexandra and Zoe. My nieces

  141. Jennifer B says:

    I encourage a young lady in college. I would love to have this as a resource to use with her!!

  142. I would give the book to my 13 year old niece who is a new believer and struggling with the world’s way or God’s way when it comes to popularity and boys.

  143. Deanne Boonstra says:

    I would love to share this with my daughter who is raising two boys on her own . Here children father is incarcerated and she is really having a hard time. I pray for her Dailey that she will do God will in her life and trust and understand what God has plan for her and the boys. She live with me and my husband. I would love to have her reads this. God Bless Deanne Boonstra

  144. Ann Marie says:

    I am currently working with 8th-12th grade students as a mentor and I would love to share this book with them.

  145. Thanks for this Lynn! We need to hear more about the Holy Spirit in a believer’s life.
    I would give this book to my lovely 16 year old granddaughter.
    Blessings!

  146. I would like to share a copy of this book with my two daughters. God Bless you in choosing the perfect owner for this book. Thank you and have a blessed day.

  147. I would love to win this book for my tween daughter.

  148. This is a great book for college women too. I would share it with my son’s girlfriend who is transitioning to college life this week. 🙂 Thanks for the post, Lynn.

  149. So wondeful to meet you through Krista Williams, first 5 and Proverbs 31. I would give this book to a woman who has been homeless, but is now walking with the Lord, has started a job. Our church group has rallied around her in prayer. She needs to know how to hear the Spirit and not the devil.
    Blessings,
    Janis

  150. My sister-in-law will turn 20 this April. She has such a heart for God but is feeling a bit lost as far as church is concerned now that she’s in that “college” group. I would love to share and study this book with her! We have 3 cousins ages 19,17, and 11 who recently lost their dad (their mom died 11 years ago). They are doing well but I have been praying about how I can invest in them and help them in their spiritual journey, I’m praying this might be the right place to start.

  151. I would love to share with my daughter.

  152. Sithabile Tshabalala says:

    My Sister Zanele. God has called her into the ministry. it seems that she is at a crossroad. She is awaiting further instructions from the Lord. There are a lot of options and and she is currently in a tight place. we have 6 other sisters who would benefit from reading the book some are not yet born again

  153. Chris Kraemer says:

    I would share this book with my daughter Cassie. She is a senior in high school and a little shy and quiet. She has a heart for the Lord but at times she feels discouraged. Her friends and the world we live in put so much focus on dating and relationships and Cassie at times struggles with the fact that she hasn’t ever had a boyfriend. I have tried to tell her that if she focuses on God and becoming the women He created her to be, the right guy will come along. It is worth waiting for the right guy and God’s timing.

  154. I would like to share this with my daughters, one of the women in my small group and, when she gets older, my granddaughter.

    Thank you.

  155. There is a young woman that comes to our home each Tuesday morning to lead my daughter and 4 friends in a bible study before school. I would love to give her the book so she could work through it with all 5 girls.

  156. Would love to share this with the girls I’m at school with daily.

  157. Carolyn R says:

    My sweet daughter, Isabella. She’s a good girl in her teens and, like many, experiences loneliness from not having a good Christian friend to count on. It seems many girls her age do not share her values nor appreciate what a great girl she is.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.