John 10:27
“My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me.”
JESUS uses the analogy of a shepherd and his sheep to explain that those who belong to Him recognize His voice, are known by Him, and choose to follow Him. This passage is the beginning of a promise where JESUS gives eternal life to His followers and assures them that they will never perish. Believers are characterized by their ability to hear and respond to JESUS' voice amidst other voices.
JESUS has a personal relationship with His followers, knowing them intimately. Because of this personal relationship, His sheep are not passive but actively follow Him, demonstrating their trust and connection with JESUS. This verse is immediately followed by the assurance of eternal life, security from perishing, and protection from being taken from His hand or the FATHER’s hand.
Prayer:
Dear Heavenly FATHER, thank You for speaking to me. Thank You for loving me and for blessing me with eternal life. Help me to follow You, knowing that I am safe in Your hand and cannot be lost. Please help me to recognize Your voice, especially in the midst of the many distractions in my life. Give me the wisdom to know when you are guiding me and the courage to follow You, for I trust that Your voice always leads me to what is good, to what is right and to what is true. Speak, LORD, for I am listening, in JESUS’ life-giving Name. Amen.