The Shepherd’s Voice

“The sheep are too close to the road!” I said to my husband while on our daily walk, which took us past a field where we frequently saw sheep grazing. However, on this day, the green grass near the road enticed them into dangerous territory: the yard between the shepherd’s house and a busy road. We alerted the shepherd, and he confirmed the sheep were in an off-limits area. When he called to them, they immediately turned from the lush grass and followed him to the safe pasture. This scene reminded me of Jesus’ words in John 10:27: “My sheep hear My voice, and I know them, and they follow Me.” What are the blessings of following the Good Shepherd? • Jesus gave His life for us (John 10:11). • Jesus protects us (John 10:12-13). • Through Jesus, we know God the Father (John 10:14-15). • Jesus gives us eternal life (John 10:28). As Christians, what is our response to the Good Shepherd’s voice? • We know Him (John 10:14). • We recognize His voice and follow Him (John 10:27-28). Many voices demand our attention, so how do we make sure we’re hearing the Good Shepherd’s voice? As we read the Bible and pray, the Holy Spirit allows us to hear Jesus’ voice and shows us how to follow Him. By responding to the Shepherd’s voice, we receive more than just safe pasture. We follow the One who took our sins to the cross and made us right before God. Our eternal destiny is with Jesus, the Great Shepherd (Hebrews 13:20). • Debbie Ewald • It’s easy to listen to voices other than the Good Shepherd. What are some lies we sometimes believe instead of listening to Jesus? • What are some Scripture passages you can use to refute the lies you listed above? My sheep hear My voice, and I know them, and they follow Me. John 10:27 (NKJV)

Read Verses:

John 10:11-16, 27-28; 1 Peter 2:24-25