The Voice of the Shepherd
God is committed to us and expects us to be committed to Him. In the book of James, we are instructed to provide help to those who have strayed from the Truth and direct them to the voice of the shepherd.
James 5:19-20
Brethren, if any of you do err from the truth, and one convert him; Let him know that he which converts the sinner from the error of his way shall save a soul from death and shall hide a multitude of sins.
The Wander
Most find themselves in situations that they never intended to be in. It can be a slow wandering from the path of righteousness. People are often referred to in the Scriptures as sheep. Sheep are very dependent and require a shepherd. God has committed Himself to us as the Good Shepherd and laid down His life as the Messiah for each and every one of us. As our shepherd, He will pursue us and guide us back to Him. All heaven rejoices for one lost sheep that responds to the voice of the shepherd.
The Voice
Sheep, having been part of a herd and belonging to an attentive shepherd, know the voice of their shepherd. They know that voice is the one who will guide them to good pasture and provide shelter and places of rest. Even if one wanders from the herd, a familiar call from their shepherd causes the sheep to respond to his call.
The Repentance
The crook of his staff provides protection and help. The other end provides a rod of discipline and warning to remind the sheep of what the dangers could be. This rod and staff is the ministry of healing. Likewise, James says if we can guide one back from the error of his way, we shall save a soul from death.
Don’t ever forget the voice of the shepherd. If you want to know what God says, look at what He has said. His word is His voice. Stay familiar with his voice and respond as quickly as you possibly can.