Blog Archive - April 2008

This is the first post in my new series “Prophetic Musician Interviews”. Today’s interview is part 1 with Gabriel Hancock, a fellow full-time missionary here at IHOP. Gabriel plays drums on Jon Thurlow’s worship team here in the prayer room.

Josh: So tell us a little bit about yourself. How long have you been playing the drums?


Gabriel: I have been playing drums for about 14 years. Some of those years I have played more consistently than others. I played in a band for 4 years and was able to tour the country right out of high school. 3 out the 4 guys in the band were Christian. I had vision to do ministry through playing music even though we never preached the Word from the platform. I would try to talk to kids about the Lord and love on them off the stage. In retrospect, I feel as though there was some ministry that took place. However at this point in my life it is clear that the Lord desires more from His musicians. I feel the Holy Spirit calling me to a higher vision than that which I once had. Music is simply too powerful to limit it to entertainment. Kids will listen to music for hours but fall asleep or check out the minute the pastor starts his message. Why do you think that is?

Josh: There’s definitely something more to music than just being a form of entertainment! As someone eagerly wanting God’s power to come forth from your music, I’m sure you would agree that the only way forward in that is to connect your heart with the Lord at a deeper level. Tell us a little about that.

Gabriel: I have heard it said before that connecting with the Lord is so simple that most people miss it. There must be a complicated formula in which to connect with the God of the universe. Thankfully the Lord is fully aware of our weakness and therefore established a method that anyone can follow regardless of skill level, gifting, health or age. All we must do is humble ourselves, quiet our hearts and simply talk to Him who holds the seven stars in His hand. To connect with the Lord off stage I will take a deep breath and say, “Holy Spirit, I love You. Thank You for Your presence.” When done throughout the day alongside gently praying in the Spirit your heart will begin to connect to the heart of God.