TEXT: JOHN 10:3-4 NKJV
[3] To him the doorkeeper opens, and the sheep hear his voice; and he calls his own sheep by name and leads them out. [4] And when he brings out his own sheep, he goes before them; and the sheep follow him, for they know his voice.
Discussion
Jesus gave this parable in our text today to show us that hearing from the Lord is important. The parable explains how easy it is to hear from the Lord. Many Christians today struggle to hear from God because they think its something very hard or meant for prophets alone. Jesus said that if a sheep can recognize the voice of its shepherd and follow him, then we should also be able to recognize and follow the voice of God.
Before a sheep can recognize the voice of its shepherd, there must be a strong bond between them. The shepherd feeds the sheep daily, provides shelter for them, cares for them, and supplies all their needs because the survival of the sheep depends on the shepherd’s care. If contact between the sheep and the shepherd is lost, the sheep will not recognize the shepherd’s voice.
The most important factor in hearing God is relationship. Anyone who claims to hear God but does not have a healthy relationship with Him is not truly hearing God. They may be hearing their own thoughts or being deceived by the devil. If anyone claims to give you a prophecy from God but does not have a healthy relationship with Him, feel free to disregard it.
God can speak through anyone or anything, but such occurrences are rare and unique. For example, God’s use of Balaam’s donkey was an exceptional case. We may never hear a donkey speak again.
The primary and most reliable way to hear God personally is by building a healthy relationship with Him. As this relationship grows, you will gradually begin to recognize His voice and understand how He communicates with you personally. Just as it takes time to build a healthy relationship with people, it also takes time to build a healthy relationship with God.
Practical Steps for Building a Relationship with God
1. Daily study of the Word of God (Joshua 1:8).
2. Daily communication with God through prayer (Luke 18:1).
3. A heart of flesh—a heart that is receptive to correction (Ezekiel 36:26).
4. A life of sacrifice (Psalm 50:5).
Declarations:
I receive a hearing ear in Jesus’ name. I receive a heart of flesh in Jesus’ name. I receive the spirit of prayer in Jesus’ name. Amen.
Light Up Christian Fellowship
