My sheep recognize my voice. I know them, and they follow me.  ( John 10:25 MSG)

As I listen to the birds singing their songs every morning, I wish I could distinguish one bird from another. I identify the honking geese as they fly over the lake, and I hear the woodpecker as he raps for his meal. I can see the difference between a robin and a sparrow, but I can’t tell them apart by their voices.

My husband Dan can recognize the voices of several birds. He knows the robin’s sweet song, and he is familiar with the squawking blue jay. He can even point out the mimicking mockingbird. So, I’m trying to learn a few voice recognition tips from him.

I struggle with the same issue in my spiritual life at times. Is this the voice of conviction or condemnation? Will I let faith lead me, or will I be confused and distracted by fear? Does this voice speak life or death to my heart? Does it give me direction or cause me to dwell on the impossible mistakes of the past? 

Photo/KarenJordan

How do you recognize the difference between the voices of conviction and  condemnation?

More on Voice Recognition:

Tip One: Communicate with God

Tip Two: Examine God's Word

Tip Three: Allow God to Examine Your Heart

Tip Four: Embrace the Power of Christ in You