The Door to the Sheepfold
John 10:3 The doorkeeper opens it for him…
Several years ago, I was introduced to an old preacher by the name of Brother Lynn. We became friends. Bro. Lynn had a profound impact on many young preachers, including me. His words were filled the wisdom born of experience, countless hours of study, and deep spiritual insight. He had a gift for simplifying truth and I remember well his summation of our Christian faith:
It’s simple boys. Hear God. Obey God.
God’s grace has always been poured out on anyone who would simply hear Him and obey Him. But He doesn’t necessarily wait on our actions. He looks at the heart and knows your intentions. The Psalmist realized this, too. In Psalm 119:34, he exposes his own heart, saying:
Help me understand Your instruction, and I will obey it and follow it will all my heart.
Hebrews 11 records a long list of people who lived by faith. Verse 39 tells us:
Each one was approved by their faith.
They simply heard God and obeyed God. This is how we gain salvation, but it applies to our daily lives as well. For those who hear Jesus say, Follow Me, and respond in obedience, a life long journey begins.
Is it always easy? No. Is the road always smooth? No.
But it is an adventure into purpose with great joy. Hearing God and obeying God is the key to the abundant life Jesus offers. And we have a guaranteed outcome. One day we’ll get home.
For Bro. Lynn, faith became sight in 2004. The Doorkeeper opened the door and Bro. Lynn walked through it into eternity. I look forward to introducing you to him one day.
Alongside for the Journey!
Guest Writer – Jeff Mann
