[John 10, Proverbs 26]

H – John 10:27, “My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me.”

E – A Sheep’s Life!

I can’t tell you how many sermons I have heard with sheep being referenced. Most of the sermons would use sheep as a dumb animal in reference to how ignorant we are at times. Although I agree to a certain point and have used the illustration myself, Jesus never talked about how dumb sheep where. Rather, Jesus’ talked about how valuable sheep were and their obedient response to “The Shepherd”. John 10 portrays this beautifully. 

The Sheep hears The Shepherds voice. It is distinct, noticeable, and understood. The sheep pay close attention to the voice of the Shepherd; to the point His voice is so distinct, noticeable, and understood if any other voice prompts for the sheep’s attention it would know “stranger danger” (10:5). The sheep of the Shepherd would know not to follow and would flee. 

The Shepherd knows The Sheep. The Shepherd knows each sheep. He has given them a name. He knows their characteristics, each trait. He knows each personality, flaws and all. He understands their strengths and weaknesses. He provides everything they need to grow healthy and mature. He ministers to them in their lowest moments to provide the healing that they need. He takes His time not to rush them through the pasture and own to the next thing. He understands them and through it all they are His.

The Sheep follows The Shepherd. And, why not? The sheep have witnessed the great detail into the Shepherds love for them. He has sacrificed so much just for the provisions and protection of the sheep. The sheep have never been abandoned. The Shepherd has always been within reach. The flock has even witnessed the Shepherd leaving the them in chase of only one that has wondered away. The Shepherd’s love is go great to the sheep that He has given them eternal life, protection, and hope for a future (10:28). Therefore, they’re going to follow their Shepherd. 

That is a sheep’s life: listening to, being loved on by, and obediently following the Shepherd. 

A – Be careful to listen as I read through His Word. Hold fast to the Hope I have in Him. Heed conviction through His Spirit, following Him.

R – Lord God, thank you for eternal life that comes through salvation provided by The Good Shepherd. Lord, give me ears to listen, a desire to obediently follow, and a heart to be consumed with you. I praise you for the way you know me and yet still care for me. 

In Jesus Name!