Let’s Pause and Focus on LISTENING!
Since surrendering my life to Christ in 1984 (WOW!) I’ve spent a lot of time studying and meditating on the Bible, and one verse that has always stood out to me is John 10:27. In this verse, Jesus says, “My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me.”
When I first read this verse, I was struck by the intimacy and personal nature of the relationship Jesus describes. He doesn’t just know his sheep in a general or impersonal way; he knows them intimately and personally. And they, in turn, hear His voice and follow him.
This verse has also been a source of comfort for me during difficult times in my life. When I’ve felt lost or unsure of which direction to take, I’ve reminded myself that as one of His SHEEP, I can trust that I will hear His voice and know which way to go. It’s a reminder that I am never alone and that I can always rely on the guidance of my Good Shepherd.
It’s also a reminder that as a Christian, my relationship with Jesus is not just a one-time decision, but it’s a daily decision to follow Him.
The sheep hear Jesus’ voice and know it, then they follow Him. It’s an ongoing process and it’s our decision to follow Jesus even when life is tough and challenging.
It’s not always easy to hear Jesus’ voice, especially in a world that is so loud and full of distractions. Sometimes it can be hard to tune out all the noise and listen for that still, small voice of Jesus. It is so important to PAUSE–to make time to be quiet and listen, whether that’s through prayer, reading the Bible, or simply sitting in silence.
One way I like to quiet my heart to hear Jesus’ voice is by journaling, as I put down my thoughts and feelings in writing, it gives me an opportunity to reflect on what Jesus might be saying to me through his Word. Another way is through meditating on one verse of scripture through a process called lectio divina (more on that later), as I focus on a particular verse or passage and I let the words sink in and I begin to hear Gods’ voice in my heart.
I also believe that being part of a community of believers is important in hearing Jesus’ voice.
Just as sheep rely on the other members of the flock to help them find food and protect them from predators, we too need other believers to support us and encourage us in our walk with Jesus. It’s through sharing our struggles and victories, that we can help each other grow in faith and obedience.
John 10:27 reminds us that as believers, we have a personal and intimate relationship with Jesus, and that He calls us to listen to Him and to follow him.
He knows us intimately and personally and is always with us, guiding us through life’s journey. It’s our daily decision to follow Him and to listen to His voice, which requires a heart that is quiet, focused, and tuned into his Spirit.
As we follow Jesus, we can trust that He will lead us to a life that is full of peace, purpose, and fulfillment.
Leave a comment below and I will send you a great LISTENING TOOL!!
