Listening To His Voice

My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me. I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish; no one will snatch them out of my hand.

John 10:27–28

As Christians, we face spiritual battles every day. One of the most difficult battlefields is in the realm of our minds. Satan loves to interfere with our lives and attack us through our thought lives. If he can get our minds off Christ, Satan can get us off track. Often his tactics are subtle. In the garden of Eden, he tempted Eve by asking her whether God really meant what he said and by throwing aspersions on God’s character. Satan will often raise similar questions and doubts with us, figuratively whispering in our ear, tempting us to doubt God’s Word, disobey his commands, and resist his leading in our lives.

How can we avoid being led astray? By staying close to our Shepherd. As we draw closer to him, listening to the instruction in his Word, we become more familiar with the sound of his voice and recognizing his leading in our lives. Our thoughts and wills become more closely aligned with his. We can stay close to God by: quieting our hearts; praying; asking him to reveal himself through his Word; reading his Word, underlining or highlighting what stands out; meditating (considering, contemplating) a verse or two, or a whole passage; and regularly attending a church where God’s Word is faithfully taught.

As we listen and follow our Shepherd’s voice, our thoughts and behaviors align with his purpose and we can grow in our walk with him.

As long as we let the Word of God be our only armor, we can look confidently into the future.

Dietrich Bonhoeffer

If the Lord be with us, we have no cause of fear. His eye is upon us, his arm over us, his ear open to our prayer—his grace sufficient, his promise unchangeable.

John Newton

For Further Reflection

Jeremiah 15:16; Romans 10:17; Hebrews 4:12

Today’s Prayer

Father, help me to guard my eyes and ears and to focus on your voice leading and guiding me. Help me to take time each day in your Word so that I grow in your truths. Amen.