This is what makes the shepherd such a wonderful metaphor for our relationship with God.
He cares for us, provides for us, loves us, heals us, and directs us away from danger even when we are the ones who get ourselves into trouble. He even gave His life for us. He knows us and He reveals Himself to us so that we can hear His voice and follow Him. Also, we are completely reliant on Him. God provides everything we need for life and salvation and that life and salvation can come from no one else.
The Search for God
With all the places people go looking to commune with God and all the sources they seek out to hear God’s voice, there is one place we know we will hear Him.
We hear Him in His Word.
That is where we can be sure God speaks to us and reveals himself to us. So, many people want God to reveal Himself to them, but they reject His Word. Like the Jews in the John 10 passage, even when Jesus has made it obvious, those who are not His sheep, who do not listen to His voice, miss it. However, for those who hear and believe, He will give them eternal life and no one can snatch them out of His hand.
Dear Jesus,
Open my ears that I may hear Your voice. Make me Your sheep and be my shepherd.
Amen.