Recognizing His Voice

     Something wonderful and unexpected has been happening to me since I have begun to sit quietly in God's presence and listen to what He has to say to me.
     When I first started practicing being in the Lord's presence in this way, I found that He really spoke to me, specifically and richly. I went on through the rest of my day feeling loved, refreshed, and saturated in His presence. Lately I am finding that I am more sensitive to His voice, even when I am not actively or intently seeking to hear it. 
     Many situations have arisen in which I would normally react in a certain way, without really having giving it a second thought. Lately, I find I am hearing that 'still small voice' more often and more easily throughout my days and the results have been miraculous. I am aware of the way the Lord would have me act or what he would have me do. I am also acutely aware of the fact it is not how I previously would have treated the situation. When I listen and yield to His leading, peace has filled each situation that would other wise have been tense. Joy is filling up much more of my day because, although I always "knew" that God was everywhere at all times and in every situation, I am now keenly aware of Him and His gentle leading.
     I am so grateful that the Lord chooses to speak to me this way. I feel I understand in a new way, John 10:4..."When he has brought out all his own, he goes on ahead of them, and his sheep follow him because they know his voice".
     Because I took the time to learn to hear His voice and know the sound of it, I can now hear Him direct my steps more clearly. What peace to live in His presence!