Hearing God’s voice isn’t always easy, with the world’s clamor distracting our thoughts. Even then, sometimes we choose to tune Him out with our own pursuits, whether they’re good or not. Imagine King David in the midst of his many trials, listening to God tell him to “be still.” Perhaps that should be our daily habit.
ETERNAL PERSPECTIVES by Sally Bair
The Voice
Remember the old TV show, “The Voice?” Americans voted for their favorite singer on the popular TV show, The Voice. How could the voters choose from such a host of worthy singers? They likely voted not only on their voices, but on the way they dressed and moved, and on their life stories. Some came from difficult circumstances and wanted to prove their talent to everyone, or to start a new career. Others wanted to win enough money to help their families.
Their singing styles and voices differed greatly, as did their choice of songs—from pop to rock, classical to country. All sounded good, and no doubt many of the losers gained a large enough following to advance their singing aspirations.
Other types of voices also beckon us. We “vote” for our favorite hairstyles, clothing fads, and home décor. We tend to try new foods, endorse new politicians, and follow new religious fads. In fact, every day brings something or someone new that draws us to follow. Like those who listened to the singers in the TV competition, we also vote on someone or something that looks, sounds, or acts different from what we’re used to.
Voices clamor for our attention until sometimes we don’t know how to respond, or how to vote. If we’re bored, disillusioned, or anxious about our present situation, it becomes easy to listen to other voices—voices that try to make us believe our lives will improve, become easier or bring more fun and satisfaction. We learn that all voices cannot be trusted.
God’s voice, however, is trustworthy. Jesus said, “I am the good shepherd; and I know My sheep and am known by My own … and I lay down My life for the sheep. Other sheep I have which are not of this fold; them also I must bring, and they will hear My voice ….” (John 10:14-16)
In these verses, Jesus refers to you and me. After the Jewish leaders rejected Him, He told them He accepted the Gentiles, the non-Jews, into His sheepfold. As our Shepherd, Jesus guides us through His voice. He gives us safety, tends to our needs, and loves us as His own. As His sheep, we obediently follow His perfect path, listening to His voice—His perfect voice of love—so we can dwell with Him.
Many voices call to us, tempting us to stray from His path. Only when we listen to Him through His Word and Spirit will we find inner peace, joy, and rest.
Lord, instill in us a compelling desire to hear Your voice clearly—even when other voices clamor to overpower us. In Jesus’ name, amen.
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