A Dynamic Relationship
To him the doorkeeper opens, and the sheep hear his voice; and he calls his own sheep by name and leads them out. And when he brings out his own sheep, he goes before them; and the sheep follow him, for they know his voice (John.10.3-4).
The existing relationship between the sheep and the shepherd is a very warm and dynamic one. They communicate effectively. The sheep hear the voice of the shepherd and obey without restrictions. However, it is very surprising that many people claim to follow God but don’t hear his voice. How does that happen?
This piece isn’t about judging you but helping to right the wrong in the relationship. Well, you cannot desire to hear God but absent yourself from fellowshipping with Him. Spending quality time with a lover is a characteristics of a sound relationship. Like the sheep is literally helpless without the shepherd, so your relationship must be groomed to grow to a fellowship. What do you do during the fellowship? Study the Word, prayers, singing, meditations and other spiritual exercises.
The Father as a shepherd craves for more fellowship with you than you can imagine. He is available to build a quality relationship with you. However, there are few things we need to clear up. Hearing from God isn’t as hard as it seems. He speaks through His word (Bible), our thoughts, through intuition, through perception, inner witness which could be peaceful or otherwise and so on. Our emphasis should be more on discerning His voice rather than the means.
The best way to know His voice is by paying close attention. There is a pattern by which He speaks. There is a uniqueness by which he communicates. There is an affection that accompanies His rapport with us. Like A.W. Tozer would say, ‘God tells the man who cares’. Do you care enough to pay attention to the pattern of God’s voice?
© Olusola John.