God's Voice

“My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me.” John 10:27

Voice. It’s what gives our writing meaning. It’s when you read my words and you say to yourself, “That sounds exactly like something Kristine would say!” Not the kind of voice that echoes forth when we sing, or laugh with friends, or even argue… ahem…I mean, discuss things with our strong-willed kids. It’s a different kind of voice.

Voice is a literary term. It gives personality to our words. My words give me away as a matter-of-fact, keep-it-simple kind of girl, but when I try to get too fancy – too fluffy – my voice gets lost.

In John chapter 10, Jesus is once again approached by Jews who try to twist his words and manipulate them to fit their schemes. Jesus lets them know right quick-like – they can’t hear his voice because they are not his sheep. No fluff there, folks.

Lord, thank you that I am one of your sheep!

God’s voice is unmistakable to His sheep. Ever wonder why you can be reading the Bible, and a passage or phrase seems to grip your heart or send warmth flowing from the top of your head to the tip of your toes?

God’s words live because they’re infused with His voice.

“The voice of the Lord strikes like lightening.” Psalms 29:7 (NIV)

Beginning this Wednesday, I will be posting about 15 Valuable Verbs of the Bible. Looking at the powerful ways God calls us to action with these action verbs will equip us as we wrap up 2014 and prepare for the New Year.

The series will end on New Year’s Eve, with a recap of the 15 Valuable Verbs, and FREE printable bookmarks as a reminder of our purpose. I hope you’ll join me.

To have a short reminder sent directly to your inbox each day of the 15-day devotional series, simply subscribe to the blog by entering your email address on the right-hand side of this page. I just love convenience, don't you?? See you Wednesday!

Soaring Above the Current

“and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior, for he has looked on the humble estate of his servant. For behold, from now on all generations will call me blessed; for he who is mighty has done great things for me, and holy is his name.” Luke 1:47-49 (ESV)

Out for a walk on a breezy afternoon, my eyes are drawn upward to a flock of birds catching a wind current and enjoying effortless gliding. On a backdrop of blue, I can almost sense the freedom they are experiencing in this moment.

As Christians, we often forget the liberating sensation that comes from living a life with Jesus Christ as our Savior. Instead of allowing God to gently lift us up and propel us forward, we feel like we struggle daily, flying head-on into high velocity winds.

In Luke chapter one, Mary rejoices and praises God even though her current circumstances were anything but easy. In fact, this unexpected assignment would cause her and her husband Joseph great difficulty and turmoil. Mary chooses to look beyond the situation and focus on the blessing – not only the blessing she would soon hold in her arms while resting on a bed of hay in a small stable, but also the blessing that would one day provide the way of salvation for generations to come.

Mary’s song in the book of Luke inspires us to rejoice in God’s goodness, even when daunted by the path ahead. When faced with a seemingly insurmountable task, we can change perspective and position ourselves above the current. Then, by spreading our wings wide, we allow the mighty hand of God to guide us forward.

Linking up today with #LiveFreeThursday!