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It Stretches You! Learning to Hear the Shepherd’s Voice

 

“A believer embracing God’s higher purpose.”


It Stretches You! – Hearing the Shepherd’s Voice (John 10:4–6)

"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)

   Knowing the Shepherd’s voice is essential for navigating life amid the many competing voices that can cause fear, doubt, or weariness. The Good Shepherd’s voice brings love, peace, and joy—and it stretches us to grow toward a greater good, a higher purpose, and a bigger plan.

   Firstly, the voice of the Shepherd stretches us for a greater good. Life often presents challenges that seem discouraging or confusing, yet God's voice calls us to perceive every situation—even hardships—as working together for a positive outcome. When we choose to listen to His voice, we begin to see beyond appearances and discover that good exists in every person, place, and moment. This perspective stretches our hearts to develop deeper compassion and understanding toward others, including those who differ from us.

   Secondly, the voice of the Shepherd stretches us toward a higher purpose. At times, life’s challenges may seem overwhelming, but God’s voice lifts us to see from a higher vantage point. Just as ascending to higher altitudes in an airplane changes one’s perspective, the Lord invites us to rise above present circumstances. This stretching challenges us to think, speak, and act with divine wisdom—embracing a purpose that transcends temporary trials.

   Thirdly, the voice of the Shepherd stretches us to understand and participate in a bigger plan. Life’s unfolding events are never random. God’s voice reveals that there is a grander, divine plan beyond our understanding. When we expand our awareness to grasp His intentions, we begin to trust that everything—including difficulties—fits within His purposeful design. This trust strengthens our faith and anchors our hearts in peace.

   Ultimately, God’s voice fills and stretches us beyond our current capacity, aligning us with His higher, greater, and bigger purposes. Spiritual growth often requires conscious stretching—opening the mind, heart, and spirit to the expansive work God invites us into. Though it may feel uncomfortable at times, being stretched is evidence that we are tuned in to the Shepherd’s voice and walking in transformation toward love, peace, joy, and purpose.

   Will you respond to the call to stretch today? The Shepherd is inviting you to embrace the greater good, higher purpose, and bigger plan He has prepared for those who listen and follow His voice.

📖 Reflection: In what areas of your life is God calling you to stretch beyond comfort and trust His greater plan?

💡 Action Step: Take time in prayer this week to listen intentionally for the Shepherd’s voice. Ask Him to help you recognize how He is stretching you for your growth and His glory.

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