Today’s Reading: John 10:1-7
Hearing God’s Voice for Today:
“He who does not enter the sheepfold by the door but climbs in by another way, that man is a thief and a robber. But he who enters by the door is the shepherd of the sheep. To him the gatekeeper opens. The sheep hear his voice, and he calls his own sheep by name and leads them out. When he has brought out all his own, he goes before them, and the sheep will follow him…I am the door of the sheep.”
* * * * *
In Jesus’ day, a sheepfold was a common courtyard near or beside a house. One of several family members would oversee all the sheep. There was a specific door by which the sheep would enter the sheepfold. A gatekeeper would carefully guard the door. It could be a family member or a hired hand.
Jesus is that door to the sheepfold. Those who enter through him are God’s children.
The gatekeepers are ministers and shepherds who are called by him to oversee his sheep. Their job is to guard and feed his sheep.
Through the ages, thieves have tried to approach Jesus’ sheep without going through him. Sometimes they pretend to be sent from him. They try to fleece, not feed, his sheep. They try to use, not serve, his sheep—for their own glory. His heart is broken when this occurs.
That is why you must learn to hear his voice. You must know his Word and be able to discern true teachers from false ones. False teachers do not have your good as their highest aim. True teachers do. They will continually point you to Jesus. They want him alone to receive all the glory. Self-aggrandizement and greed are not their desires.
Jesus is your shepherd. When you enter the sheepfold through him, you will want for nothing. He will lead you beside still waters and green grass. He will restore your soul.
He will lead you on the path of righteousness so that his name alone will be glorified. He doesn’t share his glory with any human. You will desire that he alone receives all glory.
Should you walk through the valley of the shadow of death, you will never fear. Jesus promises to be with you. He will guide, comfort, and protect you. His living, personal presence in your life is the best antidote for fear of death. You will never walk alone. He will prepare a banquet table for you in the presence of your enemies. He will soothe your frenzied life with his refreshing, soothing oil.
Your cup will overflow with his grace.
Surely his goodness and mercy will pursue you every day of your life. And you will dwell with him in the eternal dwelling place he has prepared for you.
Jesus will go before you. He will speak to you while leading you. Just let him be your Shepherd. Be guided by the good and faithful shepherds who love him—and faithfully teach his Word. And flee the false shepherds who are using you for greed and fame. They are not from Jesus.
Jesus’ good shepherds want only your best—and his glory. Be sure to follow them.
[from “Hearing the Voice of God” by Pastor David Chadwick, Moments of Hope Church, Charlotte, NC]