Click above to listen to The Voice, the title track from the album The Voice (recorded at the George Lucas Skywalker Sound Studio). If you enjoy, consider purchasing the song, album download, or CD from Amazon, iTunes, or stantonlanier.com (where sheet music is also available).
Do you long, like me, to hear God’s voice more clearly in a noisy world?
I have discovered this is possible, but it takes some patience and practice to experience hearing God’s voice more often, and with more clarity. The disciplines of simplicity, silence, solitude and surrender play an integral part. However, the key is to take the first step. Here is some of my story and what I have learned.
By the time I was in high school I had become a worrier and perfectionist, and was overly conscious of what others thought of me. The voice I often heard in my mind was my own, criticizing my performance and pouring on more pressure to succeed. God was part of my life, but it took a long time before I deeply explored the possibility of hearing His voice. Could He actually guide my steps in life? Could He provide the wisdom, discernment and comfort that I needed? Could I really hear His voice?
The more I have pursued this, the more I have encountered profound conversations and intimacy with a God who cares for me beyond my comprehension. Tell God you would like to hear His voice more clearly. Ask Him to speak into your life, to instruct you and teach you in the way you should go, to give you counsel, and to watch over you (Psalm 32:8). Thank Him for His promise to surround you with His love as you trust in Him (Psalm 32:10). Draw near to God and He will draw near to you (James 4:8).
Try playing the solo piano title track from The Voice in an extra quiet place . . . be still . . . and listen. Listen. Be quiet. Listen. Be still. Listen.
Can you hear The Voice? What is God’s gentle whisper, His still, small voice speaking to your heart?
“. . . the Lord was not in the wind; and after the wind an earthquake, but the Lord was not in the earthquake; and after the earthquake a fire, but the Lord was not in the fire; and after the fire a still, small voice . . . Elijah heard the voice. 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.'” (1 Kings 19:11-13; Isaiah 30:21)
One of the best piano compositions I’ve heard.
David, thank you so much for your comment. I am so glad “The Voice” is a favorite for you. All the best to you! Stanton
Once again Stanton nails it, both musically and spiritually. I’m a single Mom with a lot of “noise” in my life, so this truly spoke to me! Thanks Mr. Lanier.
Dear Gretchen, thank you very much for your comment. This is such an encouragement to know this post and music spoke to you. Your words encourage me to keep blogging and sharing new words for reflection that tie to pieces of my music. Grace and peace to you, Stanton
Amazing grace of talent channeling our highest power, awesome. Sending you and all ,love and sending love to God.
Dear Suzanne, thank you for your comment. I am grateful to hear your response to “The Voice” music and message in this post. Blessings to you! Stanton
Gentle, kind nourishment for my deepest soul. Amen.
Thank you for you kind words. Blessings, Stanton
This has been very needed of late. My own noise keeps interrupting…the music is a great silencer…the blog also.
Patricia, thank you for your comment. I am so glad my music has been a help in allowing things to quiet down. Blessings to you! Stanton.