The Voice Within
My Journey With the Inner Man
There’s something sacred about recognizing the voice within — that quiet, knowing presence that speaks from deep inside. I discovered this truth back in the late nineties while driving a school bus, picking up and dropping off students each day. Somewhere along those daily routes, I began to hear myself — that is, my own voice within — speaking to me about life, truth, and purpose.
It wasn’t a strange experience; it felt natural, comforting. I’d find myself inspired by what I heard — words to preach, songs to write, or messages to share. Many times, I couldn’t wait to get home so I could write everything down. Over time, I came to know this inner voice as my inward man — or as I often say, the inner Jim.
The voice of the inner man is a fascinating thing. It has been my companion for many years now, and I’ve learned that many people aren’t in touch with that part of themselves. They live only from what I call head knowledge — facts, thoughts, and logic — without ever listening to the deeper wisdom of the soul. Some call it a “gut feeling” or an “inner knowing.” Whatever name you give it, it’s your inner self trying to communicate with your living reality.
The Soul and the Voice
Here’s something profound I’ve come to realize: when you leave your body, you’re still fully conscious within yourself. You’re aware of your surroundings, and you know that your soul — your true self — was there all along.
It’s easy to live an entire lifetime without ever discerning the difference between human thought and the voice of your soul. But once you do, you start to see that your soul has its own sound, its own vibration. Others can sense it when you speak or even just when you’re in their presence.
Our physical voice is simply the earthly extension of our soul’s voice. When the body dies, that access point fades — but the soul remains, alive and aware. People who’ve crossed over often try to communicate with loved ones still in the physical realm, but few can hear them clearly.
That’s why it’s so vital to listen while we’re alive — to that inward man, to the soul’s quiet whisper that connects heaven and earth.
What the Departed Want You to Know
Many who have passed on share a similar message: they are at peace. They are experiencing a love beyond anything imaginable, and their greatest desire is to express that love to those still here.
During the process of dying, something beautiful often happens — the person begins to see loved ones who have already crossed over. They might call out their names or describe seeing them in the room. It’s as if the veil between worlds grows thin, and they’re aware of both realms at once.
But once they get a true taste of that heavenly love, they no longer wish to remain here. They’ve found home — not this temporary house made of dust, but a heavenly home not made by human hands.
And once you’ve glimpsed that eternal dwelling, there’s no desire to return. The soul finally rests in the place it’s always longed for.
A Final Thought
The inner you has been speaking all along — guiding, comforting, teaching. If you’ll take time to listen, to get still, you’ll begin to hear that same inward voice. It will lead you toward truth, toward peace, and ultimately, toward the love that never ends.
So while you’re here, use your voice — the voice your soul gave you. Speak love. Share wisdom. Let your inner self shine through every word, every song, every breath.
Because when your time comes to step beyond this realm, you’ll realize that you’ve been homeward bound all along.
II Corinthians 5:1-5
https://www.bible.com/bible/114/2CO.5.1-5