Knowing the Shepherd's Voice:

     Sometimes, life can feel like a courtroom drama where we are constantly trying to prove our worth and identity. 

    This reminds me of the story of a man in India who was accused of stealing a lamb. Both the accuser and the accused claimed ownership, and with witnesses on both sides, it seemed impossible to discern the truth. However, the judge knew the nature of shepherds and their sheep. He devised a clever plan: each man would call the lamb to see to whom it would respond. The true owner’s unique call, a simple "cluck," immediately brought the lamb to him, proving his rightful claim.

This story parallels the illustration Jesus used in John 10:1-5, where He says:

“Truly, truly, I say to you, he who does not enter the sheepfold by the door but climbs in by another way, that man is a thief and a robber. But he who enters by the door is the shepherd of the sheep. To him the gatekeeper opens. The sheep hear his voice, and he calls his own sheep by name and leads them out. When he has brought out all his own, he goes before them, and the sheep follow him, for they know his voice. A stranger they will not follow, but they will flee from him, for they do not know the voice of strangers.” (John 10:1-5)

    This passage beautifully illustrates the relationship between a shepherd and their sheep and, by extension, between Jesus and us. The true shepherd calls us by name, emphasizing a personal and relational connection. He leads from the front, guiding us gently and providing protection and provision. Just as the lamb knew its owner's voice, we too are called to recognize and follow Jesus's voice.

    I want to offer you a couple of ways you can apply this truth to your life.

1. Respond to the Gospel:

    The starting point of a relationship with Jesus is responding to the gospel. Accepting Jesus Christ as your Savior and ensuring that you are truly saved and part of God's flock is crucial. Jesus Christ died on the cross so that you might be restored, forgiven of your sins and begin a relationship with Him. If you have yet to come to Christ to be saved or you are not certain, then get that settled. send me a message I would love to talk to you more about it.

2. Cultivate a Personal Relationship with Jesus:

    Being a Christian is more than getting saved, we need to cultivate that relationship. We need to build on it. It does not happen over night, but it is a life long process. You don't stop talking to your spouse, after the wedding is over, or  at least you shouldn't if you want to stay married. The same goes for our relationship with Jesus Christ. You got to cultivate that relationship. The closer you get to Jesus, the more easily you will be able to hear his voice. So spend time in prayer and reading the Bible to become familiar with His voice. Like any relationship, it requires time and effort to build a connection. 

3. Seek Guidance and Direction:

    Trust that Jesus, as our Shepherd, leads us on the right path. In moments of uncertainty, seek His direction through prayer and reflection on His Word. Look to him as you navigate through life's challenges, and decisions. 

4. Trust in His Protection and Provision:

Just as the shepherd provides for the sheep, believe that Jesus cares for our needs. Let go of worries, knowing that He is watching over us. God loved you enough to die for you and He will provide and protect you as well. Don't allow the worries, fears and uncertainties cause you to lose sight of the Love of God.

5. Be Mindful of Strangers' Voices:

There are many voices in the world that can lead us astray. Learn to discern the voice of Jesus from others by aligning what you hear with Scripture. Not every voice needs to be listened too. Not every advice needs to be followed. Even some of the voices that seem to come from good and honorable sources may not be all that wholesome. Remember that sometimes you may be listening to a wolf in sheep's clothing. That is why it is far safter to be closer to the Shepard than out in the out skirts of the flock. 

    By nurturing our relationship with Jesus and trusting His guidance, we can confidently follow His voice, knowing that He leads us with love and care.