Hearing and Following the Shepherd’s Voice

When we learn to recognize the Shepherd’s voice, we find His guidance, protection, and the abundant life He promises.

“My sheep listen to My voice, and I know them, and they follow Me.”—John 10:27 NASB

Jesus told us He’s the Shepherd of all His sheep, and all His sheep hear His voice! He’s with each of us who has called upon Him for salvation.

He came that we “would have life, and have it abundantly” (v. 10). He warned that there’s a thief who wants to rob and deceive us, but we can trust in our Shepherd to protect us and provide for us.

When we face choices, how can we make the right decisions? Jesus, our Shepherd, “goes ahead” of us, and “the sheep follow Him because they know His voice” (v. 4). “He calls His own sheep by name and leads them out” (v. 3).

As you face the future and the beginning of a new year, think about Jesus’ words: He promises to lead you! Go before you! Give you His protection, provision, and guidance!

If you have questions, you can call on the Lord. When you face forks in the road, you can ask Him to show you the way. He promised to call you “by name;” you can “hear His voice;” He came that you might have abundant life. He wants to direct you in paths of blessing, leading you to that abundance.

Be on guard against deception and distractions from the enemy, “the thief” (v. 10). Fill your life with the Bible—God’s written Word. Jesus is your Shepherd. He is with you today!

Reflection Question: How can you better recognize Jesus’ voice in daily life?