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It Grounds You: How to Know and Follow the Shepherd’s Voice

 

“Shepherd leading his sheep through morning light symbolizing God’s guidance.”


It Grounds You: How to Know the Shepherd’s Voice

"When the shepherd brings his sheep out of the sheepfold, he goes on ahead of them, and his sheep follow him because they know his voice. But they will never follow a stranger; in fact, they will run away from them because they do not recognize a stranger’s voice." – John 10:4–6 (KSB)

   This passage reveals the intimate, voice-activated relationship between the Shepherd and His sheep, highlighting the importance of discerning the Shepherd’s voice for spiritual guidance. Jesus used this parable to show that His followers would know His voice above all others, yet not everyone understood this truth then and not everyone recognizes it today. The theme of today’s message is “How to Know the Shepherd’s Voice.” This truth grounds believers in faith by focusing on three key principles: Biblical foundation, sensibility, and practicality.

   1. The Voice of God Grounds Us Because It Is Biblical. The voice of God always aligns with Scripture and continually draws us back to the truths found in His Word. Knowing God’s voice begins with knowing His Word. When we are uncertain whether a message is from God, the Bible becomes our standard of validation. Just as Jesus answered the enemy with Scripture during temptation, we too must root our understanding in the enduring Word that has stood the test of time. If a voice does not lead to or align with God’s Word, we should pause and question it,  for the genuine voice of God never contradicts biblical truth.

   2. The Voice of God Grounds Us Because It Is Sensible. God’s communication makes spiritual sense not merely logical or intellectual sense. Beyond the five physical senses lies a spiritual sense that resonates within our hearts. Even when something sounds convincing outwardly, God’s voice bears witness inwardly. When something fails to bring peace or resonate in the spirit, it is wise to wait and seek further confirmation. This inner assurance keeps us centered in God’s will despite the many voices competing for our attention.

   3. The Voice of God Grounds Us Because It Is Practical. God’s guidance is clear, direct, and applicable. He does not speak to confuse or overwhelm us. The practical nature of His voice means that even a child can understand His direction. When confusion arises, God confirms His message through His Word, through peace, or through repeated signs. His voice leads to order, not chaos to peace, not fear.

   In conclusion, the voice of God, the Shepherd’s voice is a grounding voice. It is rooted in Scripture, confirmed by the Spirit’s inner witness, and practical for everyday living. The Shepherd’s voice brings love, peace, clarity, and security. When confusion or doubt tries to enter, we return to the Word and listen for the Spirit’s calm direction. The Shepherd’s voice calls, guides, and centers us, keeping us steady on the path to His perfect will.

📖 Reflection: How can you become more familiar with the Shepherd’s voice in your daily walk with God?

💡 Action Step: Spend time this week reading John 10 and praying for discernment to clearly recognize God’s voice above all others.

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