SPEAKER_00: Today, let's take a deep intentional breath as we pause our regularly scheduled program of life and take a few minutes to connect with our Heavenly Father.
SPEAKER_00: Listen to Jesus' assertion about us, his followers.
SPEAKER_00: He says, My sheep listen to my voice.
SPEAKER_00: I know them, and they follow me.
SPEAKER_00: The image of sheep and a good shepherd is attentive, guiding, rescuing, leading the way.
SPEAKER_00: It's all over the biblical narrative.
SPEAKER_00: Jesus uses this picture here to show the intimate knowledge he has of us and the trust we have in the Good Shepherd because of the kind of care Jesus provides.
SPEAKER_00: Recognizing his voice takes practice.
SPEAKER_00: He's not trying to confuse you.
SPEAKER_00: He delights in leading his people with clarity, wisdom, and care.
SPEAKER_00: Let's pray around this today and look for small ways to practice listening for his voice and obeying him as our good shepherd.
SPEAKER_00: First, let's thank Jesus that he still speaks and leads his people today.
SPEAKER_00: Take 20 seconds and praise him for his guidance that brings peace and direction, not confusion and chaos.
SPEAKER_00: Now let's spend the next few moments asking God to help you hear him more clearly.
SPEAKER_00: Maybe distractions or competing voices have made it difficult to recognize his leading.
SPEAKER_00: Invite Jesus to quiet the noise around you and strengthen your ability to recognize his voice.
SPEAKER_00: Ask him for wisdom to respond when he speaks.
SPEAKER_00: Ask him for opportunities to practice hearing him this week.
SPEAKER_00: Let this become a moment of listening rather than speaking.
SPEAKER_00: Let's ask God, what do you want to say to me today?
SPEAKER_00: Would you pray for them like you'd want someone else to pray for you?
SPEAKER_00: Take thirty seconds and lift them up in prayer.
SPEAKER_00: Now say this with me Lord, thank you for leading me like a faithful shepherd.
SPEAKER_00: Amen.