Misunderstanding

Have you ever missed the Lord? Though He has indeed spoken, you have missed what He was trying to tell you? Jesus said, "My sheep hear my voice..." (John 10:27a). But when you miss it, the enemy tempts you to think you are not His "sheep" or else you would've heard clearly. Your misunderstanding can give way to doubt. It is in the second half of this verse that we have the truth that sets us free from such a lie, "...I know them, and they follow me." (John 10:27b). We are know by the Lord! I do believe we, on occasion, miss Him, misunderstand His words. This of course is no fault of His clearness, but rather of our sinful, finite nature. But this lack of understanding doesn't mean we are less His sheep, anymore than your children misunderstanding your parental instruction makes them less your children! Though they have misunderstood, they still hear you, and more importantly you still know them. Don't allow the devil to try to steal your identity in Christ based on your misunderstanding. Rather continue to seek and allow the Holy Spirit to lead you into all truth. You are His, you are known by Him, and can hear His voice!