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Read: John 10:1-18

I know My sheep and My sheep know Me. – John 10:14

It sounds like science fiction or something from a James Bond film. Not too long ago, the University of Pennsylvania tested a hand-reader at one entrance of a dorm. Instead of using a key or an ID card for access, a student merely placed his palm on the scanner. If his hand-print matched one stored in the database of registered users, the door unlocked.

The growing security field of biometrics includes iris scanners, fingerprint identifiers, and voice recognition systems. Within 5 years, we may see some type of biometric scanner on automated teller machines to verify our identity.

When it comes to recognizing the voice of God, we have an unusual promise from our Savior. Jesus described Himself as the true Shepherd who knows and is known by His followers. “He calls His own sheep by name and leads them out. When He has brought out all His own, He goes on ahead of them, and His sheep follow Him because they know His voice” (John10:3-4).

How do we recognize the voice of Jesus? The Holy Spirit within us checks the “voices” that call out to us against the database of the Bible. When any course of action doesn’t ring true with Scripture, it’s time to back off, pray, and perhaps seek the counsel of a mature Christian friend.

Jesus said, “All that belongs to the Father is Mine. That is why I said the Spirit will take from what is Mine and make it known to you” (John 16:15). Father, Son, and Holy Spirit – God’s biometrics for our security in a fearful world.

Reflection

  • When I have a thought or impression, how do I determine whether or not it is God’s voice speaking to me?
  • In what situations do I find the Lord clearly speaking to me?
  • How could memorizing key Bible passages help me to recognize God’s voice?