VOICE OF TRUTH FOR TODAY
Be Still and Listen for the Voice of God
Did you know that in Jesus’ time, sheep recognized the individual voice of their shepherd?
At night, several shepherds could place hundreds of sheep together in one stone sheepfold. In the morning, each shepherd returned and called his own sheep. There was no confusion. Because the sheep knew their shepherd personally, they recognized his voice and followed him out.
Jesus used this familiar picture to describe our relationship with Him: “My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me” (John 10:27, ESV).
That relationship required closeness.
Modern technology has changed even shepherding. Animals can be marked, electronically fenced, and rounded up without ever developing that same personal relationship with their shepherd.
And sometimes I wonder whether we’re doing something similar with God.
Our phones, computers, emails, messages, social media, and endless to-do lists keep us constantly connected—and yet can leave us disconnected from the One whose voice matters most.
Do you know God’s voice? More importantly, do you stay still long enough to hear Him?
God wants relationship with us. He hears our prayers and worship, and He speaks—leading, correcting, comforting, and guiding us. As we learn His voice through Scripture and time spent in His presence, His peace helps us recognize His direction.
Even my granddaughters understand the power of listening! Once, while they sat unusually quiet in the backseat as their mom and I talked, they finally explained why: “When we just sit quiet back here and listen, we get our best information from the two of you!” 😂
There might be some Nonna wisdom in that.
Sometimes we need to stop talking. Put down the distractions. Get quiet. “Be still, and know that I am God” (Psalm 46:10, ESV). Seek Him now. Be still now.
And listen for the voice of your Shepherd.
—
Excerpt from Voice of Truth Magazine
“Nonna’s kNOWledge” by Carolyn Joy Vecchio – McNeeley
