Seed for the Harvest
Hearing the right voice

With all the popular media we have today there are so many voices calling for our attention. In the midst of it all, we each must ask ourselves, “Whose voice am I hearing and attending to?”

Answering that question is critical because the voice you hear and attend to will set the course of your life. And, naturally, not every voice has your best interest in mind.

Politicians, spiritual leaders, marketers and others who bring us their messages all have their agendas. The same can be said for every book, movie, or song we expose ourselves to.

Because of it, we need to take care how we listen. We need to be able to cut through the noise and hear the right voice. To hear and follow the wrong voice leads to confusion, disillusionment, and death. To hear and follow the right voice leads to understanding, hope, and life.

So, how do you know you are hearing the right voice? Here are a few tests to apply to the voices that seek to influence you.

First, there’s the truth test. Is what you are hearing true? Or, is it laced with deception in order to lure you in a direction you really don’t want to go? Listen and hold to what’s true, because it’s the truth that endures and sets free.

Second, there’s the righteousness test. What direction is what you are hearing inclined to take you? A path of moral decline, or a way of increased righteousness? Listen carefully, because even though the former path may appear easier and more attractive, it’s the latter that will keep you secure.

Third, the love test. Does the one whose voice you are hearing come in love? Anyone can appeal to you out of their own self-interest. But the one who comes in love has what’s good for you in mind, even if the words they share are hard to bear.

In the end, all three of these tests point to Jesus Christ. Truth, righteousness, and love are all embodied in Him. So, through all the voices we are exposed to each day, it is His voice we must hear.

His sheep hear his voice and He knows them. His sheep follow Him and He gives eternal life to them. Those who are His will never perish, and no one will snatch them out of His hand (Jn.10:27,28).

No matter where you are or what your situation, discern and hear the voice you need to be hearing. Because it’s in hearing the voice of Jesus you’ll find your greatest security.

Many voices will seek to distract you and lead you astray. But it is only Christ’s voice that will lead you in the way that goodness and lovingkindness will follow you all the days of your life (Ps.23:6).

Questions or comments? Email davidjbostromATgmail.com or visit his blog at dbostrom.wordpress.com.

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