Chris McClarney - I'm Listening (Radio Version) Lyrics
Lyrics
When You speak, confusion fades
Just a word and suddenly I'm not afraid
'Cause You speak and freedom reigns
There is hope in every single word You say
I don't wanna miss one word You speak
'Cause everything You say is life to me
I don't wanna miss one word You speak
Quiet my heart, I'm listening
When sorrows roar and troubles rage
You whisper peace when I don't have the words to say
I won't lose hope when storms won't break
You keep Your word, oh and Your promises will keep me safe
I don't wanna miss one word You speak
'Cause everything You say is life to me
I don't wanna miss one word You speak
So quiet my heart, I'm listening
Your ways are higher
You know just what I need
I trust You, Jesus
You see what I cannot see
Your ways are higher
You know just what I need
I trust You, Jesus
You see what I cannot see
I don't wanna miss one word You speak
'Cause everything You say is life to me
I don't wanna miss one word You speak
So quiet my heart, I'm listening
I don't wanna miss one word You speak
'Cause everything You say is life to me
I don't wanna miss one word You speak
So quiet my heart, I'm listening
I don't wanna miss one word You speak
'Cause everything You say is life to me
I don't wanna miss one word You speak
So quiet my heart, I'm listening
Video
Chris McClarney - I'm Listening (feat. Hollyn) [Radio Version] [Audio]
Meaning & Inspiration
Chris McClarney's "I'm Listening (Radio Version)," featuring Hollyn, released on November 1, 2019, arrives as a tender yet powerful anthem of spiritual receptivity. This song dives into the profound necessity of quieting our inner noise to truly hear the divine voice amidst life's relentless clamor. At its core, "I'm Listening" captures the essence of a soul longing for direct communion with God, recognizing His word as the ultimate source of clarity, peace, and sustained hope. It speaks to the universal human experience of seeking guidance in a world often overshadowed by confusion and fear, offering a reminder that the solution often lies in intentional attentiveness to our Creator.
The narrative of the song unfolds with a clear declaration of God's transformative power. The opening lines immediately establish that when the Divine speaks, "confusion fades," echoing the truth found in Psalm 119:105, which describes God's word as a "lamp to my feet and a light to my path," illuminating the way forward. This divine utterance doesn't merely clarify; it dispels fear, a sentiment powerfully resonant with Isaiah 41:10, where God assures, "Do not fear, for I am with you." The song further celebrates that God's voice ushers in freedom, a profound concept deeply rooted in John 8:36, where Jesus proclaims, "if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed." Every word spoken by God, according to the lyrics, is pregnant with hope, aligning with Romans 15:13, which invokes the "God of hope" to fill us with joy and peace through trust. This initial exposition sets the stage for a posture of eager anticipation, emphasizing that God’s communication isn't just comforting—it's utterly life-giving.
The recurring invitation, "I don't wanna miss one word You speak / 'Cause everything You say is life to me / Quiet my heart, I'm listening," serves as the song's anchoring declaration and its most profound prayer. This refrain perfectly encapsulates the deep yearning to absorb every divine message, understanding that God's words are not mere suggestions but the very essence of existence, as John 6:63 affirms, "The words I have spoken to you—they are full of the Spirit and life." The plea to "quiet my heart" is a conscious effort to silence the internal distractions and external pressures that compete for our attention, a practice akin to the ancient wisdom of Psalm 46:10, "Be still, and know that I am God." It's an active decision to cultivate an environment where divine whispers can be heard above the din, emphasizing a humble and receptive spirit.
As the song progresses, it delves into moments of profound human vulnerability. "When sorrows roar and troubles rage," the song acknowledges the undeniable reality of suffering. Yet, even in these tumultuous times, God's response is a "whisper peace when I don't have the words to say." This beautifully illustrates the empathetic presence of God, who offers solace even when we are overwhelmed into silence, fulfilling the promise of Philippians 4:6-7, which speaks of the "peace of God, which transcends all understanding." The resolve not to "lose hope when storms won't break" is a testament to unwavering faith, anchored in the immutable character of God. The lyrics confidently assert that God "keep[s] Your word, oh and Your promises will keep me safe," reflecting the steadfastness described in Numbers 23:19, which declares God is not human that He should lie, and reinforced by Psalm 91:4, where His faithfulness is a shield and refuge. This section reassures individuals that even when circumstances seem dire, God's integrity and protective care remain absolute.
The bridge section elevates the theme further, moving from personal experience to theological adoration: "Your ways are higher / You know just what I need / I trust You, Jesus / You see what I cannot see." This profound affirmation of divine sovereignty and wisdom directly quotes Isaiah 55:8-9, where God declares His thoughts and ways are infinitely superior to ours. It’s a humble surrender to a God who possesses perfect foresight and understanding, perfectly knowing our needs even before we articulate them, a truth Jesus Himself taught in Matthew 6:31-33. The declaration of trust in Jesus as the one who "see[s] what I cannot see" embodies the spirit of Proverbs 3:5-6, encouraging us to "trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding." This segment serves as a powerful reminder that our finite perception is limited, but God's panoramic view ensures His guidance is always for our ultimate good, even when the path is unclear to us.
"I'm Listening" ultimately serves as an inspiring call to cultivate a life marked by spiritual attentiveness. It’s a profound reminder that true wisdom, peace, and direction are found not in our own efforts to control or understand, but in our willingness to pause, quiet our spirits, and intentionally listen to the One whose words are pure life. This song encourages a deeper walk of faith, inviting every soul to experience the transformative power of God's voice in every season of life, trusting His unchanging character and unfailing promises. It speaks to the heart of Christian experience, where active listening to God’s voice through Scripture, prayer, and quiet contemplation is paramount to navigating life with purpose and enduring hope.