When I Fear to Hear His Voice

My sheep hear my voice, says the Lord;

I know them, and they follow me. // John 10:27 (From the Alleluia) 

What is Your voice, Lord? And what is it not? I found myself asking every day in prayer during a difficult season of my life. There were many voices coming at me, well intentioned, but all of them contradicting each other, which sent me into even more confusion. I was desperate to hear His voice, no matter what it would cost me. 

As I prayed and asked the Lord for guidance, I finally heard His voice. It was rare that I received such clarity about what to pray with, but He led me to today’s Alleluia verse (John 10:27). Through it, He invited me to stay with the Good Shepherd and learn to trust His words wherever they may lead. I did not know how much fear was holding me back from doing His will. To listen to His voice meant to obey His call, even if it would cost me everything. In that moment I needed to surrender deeper than my heart had known before. 

Sister, perhaps you, too, have been in a season where you desire ardently to hear the Shepherd’s voice and yet fear what He will say. The fear here can be so real, so crippling, and so dark, but His promise is one of peace and freedom. Wherever He leads you, He goes with you on the way. What is one thing you may have been holding back from asking the Lord out of fear of what He will speak? Bring that to Him today. Pray to Him: My sweet Shepherd, help me to follow You even if I fear Your voice. Give me the grace to trust that You only have goodness and kindness coming every step of the way.