The Still, Quiet Voice

By Lance Wright

That voice which speaks to us from deep within our soul, the one that speaks the truth even when we don’t always listen, the one that after we’ve done or said something out of character has us saying to ourselves, “I knew better!” So many times throughout my life have I chosen not to listen or justified going against it, and found myself worse for the ware. Some call it the conscience and that may very well be true, but I personally believe it is the place where, if I listen, I will hear the Creator’s guidance.

I was sitting in the back of a Prison Chapel 13+ years ago and for all intents and purposes, had very little direction. I remember asking this question in the silence of my thoughts, “What am I doing?” It was a universal question and in the spiritual, small voice I heard, “Continue to do the things I set before you and I will show you ever greater things.” I could go into detail about the many ways this has played out in my life, both when I listened and also when I didn’t, but the most important truth I’ve learned is that when I listen and act on that internal voice or conscience things always seem to work out for the better and the opposite has been true as well. Thankfully I have chosen to listen and act accordingly more than not and indeed I have seen and experienced ever greater things; Freedom from addiction and prison, healthier relationships, integrity and good self-identity, and so much more.

Another way in which I hear that ‘Still Quiet Voice’ is when I listen to others who show in their words and actions that they are living along spiritual lines. Early in my recovery, I used to argue with my peers about listening to anyone aside from God. I remember saying that if God didn’t speak from the burning bush I wasn’t hearing it. After a while of my obstinate behavior, a friend asked me this profound question, “Do you think the Creator stopped talking to us when The Books were finished being written or do you think that the Creator can still speak through us if we listen.” Today I rarely make any significant decisions before talking with several good people in my lives and sitting in prayer with what I’ve heard.

I can honestly say that my life is better as a result of listening to that Still Small Voice and to the voices of others who I have come to respect for their truth with me. Thank you.
This blog was about my experience with guidance as I have written on. I would love to hear how that Still Small Voice is showing up in your life and how the voices of your peers are helping you on your journey. Perhaps if we share and listen to what we hear within our soul and from others we can universally hear and be directed on a better path, where we all can live and experience ever greater things.