I remember so well, years ago, teaching my children to be aware of strangers and the dangers that they bring with them.

Their father, Pat was a police officer, so it was important to him that they know to never go with a stranger – never.

One time, Pat decided to see if they were listening to him and understanding the importance of “stranger danger.”

So, he setup a plan.  He told the kids that mom and dad were going to the store for a few minutes.  He told them to lock the door and to not let anyone in the door – not even grandma!  So, we left the house and drove down the street.

Next, a friend of Pat’s came to the door.  The children had never met him.  He comes to the door and bangs on it and says that their mom and dad had been in an accident and they needed to come with him.

So, the kids opened the door.

This setup became another training ground for them.  Stay away from stranger danger.

Be assured that the children were never left home alone.

I read from John 10:4-5 this morning.  It talks about strangers too:

When he has brought out all his own, he goes on ahead of them, and his sheep follow him because they know his voice. But they will never follow a stranger; in fact, they will run away from him because they do not recognize a stranger’s voice.
– John 10:4-5 (NIV)

The voice of God.  Why are we running away from the voice of God?

His word says that his own will recognize his voice and will follow him.  His word also says that they will never follow a stranger.  Why?  Because they do not recognize his voice.

Are you aware of the voice of God today?  Do you know His Voice?  Have you allowed the stranger’s voice to become louder in your life?

IF so, it is time to get back on track and learn how to recognize the voice of God.  First it starts with the fact – that God speaks to us.  IF we don’t know and recognize his voice, we will start following the stranger’s voice because we don’t know any better not to.

Seek Him.  Listen for His Voice.  Obey His Voice.  Today.

Sharing.  A song that I have sung many times.  Many times when I had to turn away from the world and trust in the voice of Jesus.  Not one time have I ever regretted doing that.  Enjoy.

I Have Decided to Follow Jesus