Jesus said to her, “Mary.” She turned toward him and cried out in Aramaic, “Rabboni!” (which means “Teacher”). John 20:16

In today’s society most people have a cell phone. One of the advantages of a cell phone is that when someone calls the phone can usually identify who is calling. This helps when one cannot see the person calling.

Hearing a person call in person is much easier to identify who is calling. Although in a large crowd, some will not always recognize the voice of a friend calling, unless it is a close friend that is well known.

After Jesus rose from the dead and before everyone knew about it, He had met up with Mary. At first she did not recognize Him until He called her name, then she knew who He was.

Couples who have been married for many years have learned to recognize each other’s voice, even in a large crowd. This is just like mother’s who can recognize their child’s cry in a room full of little children all calling at the same time.

The only reason people can recognize the other’s call is because they have spent time with the person and know that person very well. They know the voice of those who are close to them.

Believers who have spent time in prayer and communication with God will recognize His voice when He speaks. This is something that does not happen over night, but over a long period of time of a building of the relationship.

One should strive to build his relationship with God so closely that he knows as much as possible about God and will always recognize His voice. God is willing and ready to speak, but His people need to know His voice and be listening for it.

As a believer you should desire to be led by God in every area of your life. In order for this to occur, you must be able to recognize God’s voice when He is calling you.

He will call you to tell you what to do next, guiding every step and action. There will be times when He will also call you to stop you from an action.

Throughout your life there will be many other voices calling to you to lead you into sin. Listen for God’s voice and follow what He says. It is the best path for you.

Today I pray that you will know Jesus as your Savior; that you will know God’s voice when He calls; that you will be listening to hear God speak; and that you will obey what God is telling you.