WE WERE MADE TO GLORIFY GOD WITH OUR VOICES

We show God’s love not only through our actions but through our voices as well. For some people, the only words they hear from God are through us. This is the day the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it—through our words of comfort, love, and praise to Him.

ETERNAL PERSPECTIVES  by Sally Bair

The Voice

After many weeks, Americans voted for their favorite singer on the popular TV show, The Voice. How could the voters choose from such a host of worthy singers? They likely voted not only on their voices, but on the way they dressed and moved, and on their life stories. Some came from difficult circumstances and wanted to prove their talent to everyone, or to start a new career. Others wanted to win enough money to help their families.

Their singing styles and voices differed greatly, as did their choice of songs—from pop to rock, classical to country. All sounded good, and no doubt many of the losers gained a large enough following to advance their singing aspirations.

We all are faced with other types of voices that beckon us. We “vote” for favorite hair styles, clothing fads, and home décor. We tend to try new foods, endorse new politicians, and follow new religious fads. In fact, every day brings something or someone new that draws us to follow. Like those who listened to the singers on the TV competition, we also vote on someone or something that looks, sounds, or acts differently.

Voices clamor for our attention until sometimes we don’t know how to respond, how to vote. If we’re bored, disillusioned, or anxious about our present situation, it becomes easy to listen to other voices—voices that try to make us believe our lives will improve, become easier, or bring more fun and satisfaction.

God’s voice, however, is trustworthy. Jesus said, “I am the good shepherd; and I know My sheep and am known by My own … and I lay down My life for the sheep. Other sheep I have which are not of this fold; them also I must bring, and they will hear My voice ….” (John 10:14-16)

In these verses, Jesus refers to you and me. After the Jewish leaders rejected Him, He told them He accepted the Gentiles into His sheepfold. As our Shepherd, Jesus guides us through His voice. He gives us safety, tends to our needs, and loves us as His own. As His sheep, we obediently follow His perfect path, listening to His voice—His perfect voice of love—so we can dwell with Him.

Many voices call to us, tempt us to stray from His path. Only when we listen to Him through His Word and Spirit will we find inner peace, joy, and rest.

Lord, instill in us a compelling desire to hear Your voice clearly—even when other voices clamor to overpower us. In Jesus’ name, amen.