Recognizing The Shepherd’s Call Series

One of the most important ways we can recognize the Shepherd’s call is by ensuring that what we hear aligns with Scripture. Jesus will never contradict the Word of God. The Bible is the foundation of truth, and everything we hear must be measured against it. In a world filled with many voices, some of which claim to be from God, Scripture is the ultimate safeguard that helps us discern the truth from deception.

2 Timothy 3:16 reminds us that "All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness." The Bible is God’s inspired Word, and it serves as the standard by which we evaluate everything we hear. When we hear a voice or sense a leading, the first question we must ask is, "Does this align with Scripture?"

There are times when we may feel uncertain about whether what we’re hearing is truly from God or if it’s our own thoughts or the enemy’s deception. In those moments, Scripture serves as a plumb line. God's voice will never lead us in a direction that contradicts what He has already revealed in His Word. The more familiar we are with Scripture, the easier it becomes to recognize the Shepherd’s voice because His voice always aligns with biblical truth.

The Bible provides examples, principles, and commandments that guide us in recognizing the voice of God. Whether it’s in moral decisions, guidance for our personal lives, or direction in ministry, the voice of Jesus will always be consistent with the teachings of the Bible. If we hear something that contradicts the Word of God—no matter how convincing it sounds—we can be sure that it is not the voice of Jesus.

When Jesus was tempted in the wilderness, He responded to every temptation by quoting Scripture. Matthew 4:4 records Jesus’ words to Satan: "It is written, Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of God." Jesus modeled for us the importance of knowing and using Scripture as a defense against deception. When we are rooted in the Word of God, we are equipped to recognize when something is not from Him.

Moreover, the Bible not only helps us discern God’s voice, but it also prepares our hearts to hear it more clearly. Romans 12:2 tells us, "And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God." The renewal of our minds through Scripture transforms our ability to recognize God’s will and hear His voice. As we immerse ourselves in the Word, we become more sensitive to the leading of the Holy Spirit and more attuned to the voice of the Shepherd.

Scripture also gives us the confidence to act on what we hear. When we know that what we are hearing is consistent with God’s Word, we can step out in faith, trusting that we are following the voice of Jesus. His voice will always lead us in the paths of righteousness, guiding us according to His good and perfect will.