John_10

Scripture

 

John 10:3-4

 

The gatekeeper opens the gate for him, and the sheep listen to his voice. He calls his own sheep by name and leads them out. When he has brought out all his own, he goes on ahead of them, and his sheep follow him because they know his voice.

 

Observation-What does it say?

 

Jesus is using the example of a shepherd and his sheep to explain who He is to the Pharisees. He explains the relationship between the shepherd and the sheep - the shepherd will lay down his life to protect his sheep, and the sheep recognize the sound of the their shepherd's voice and will follow him wherever he leads.

 

Understanding-What does it mean?

 

As I read through this chapter a couple of times, what stood out to me was that the sheep recognize their master's voice. They have spent time with him and trust him. They understand that he has their best interests at heart and they will follow where he leads. Do you have a hard time hearing God's voice? I know I do sometimes. But I want to be able to pick out His voice from all the voices fighting for my attention. Jesus says in verse 14 "I am the good shepherd. I know my sheep and my sheep know me." The more I strive to know Him, the better I will hear His voice. As my relationship grows, I become more in tune with Him and His leading. 

 

Life Application

 

Jesus, you promise us that as we draw near to You, You will draw near to us. Help me to remember to draw near to You daily. As I spend time in Your presence, Your voice will become more and more clear to me as I grow in relationship with You.

 

-Debbie Dunn