A deeper relationship with Christ begins when we fully recognize the importance of hearing His voice and following Him wholeheartedly, as Jesus says in John 10:27-28, “My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me.” This relationship is not meant to be a distant or surface-level connection but one marked by intimacy, trust, and surrender. The Apostle Paul is a prime example of what it looks like to live fully committed to Christ. Though many of us see him as an exceptional figure, Paul’s life was meant to set the standard for what every believer can experience—a life transformed by grace, empowered by the Holy Spirit, and driven by a passion for God. His conversion on the road to Damascus was not just a change of mind but a complete surrender to Christ, which led to bold missionary work, profound writings, and unwavering dedication.
Paul’s life wasn’t fueled by his own strength or wisdom, but by his complete dependence on Christ. He was once a persecutor of Christians, but after encountering Jesus, he became one of the greatest ambassadors for the gospel. This same transformative power is available to every believer today. God calls each of us to a life of radical surrender, where we leave behind our old identity and live as new creations in Christ. However, many Christians struggle with living in their old habits, stuck in patterns of sin and worldly thinking. To experience true freedom and growth, we must let go of our fleshly sources of strength and fully embrace the life that Christ offers. Just as Paul demonstrated, a deeper relationship with Christ requires total surrender and a willingness to let the Holy Spirit lead every aspect of our lives.
GO TO www.belmontbaptistchurch.com/sermons and listen to Sunday’s message.
“WOMEN’S ISSUES”
I’m not voting because of so-called “women’s issues” or to make a statement about gender. My vote is driven by something far more urgent—the need to save our nation. Right now, the very fabric of what holds our country together is at risk, and that’s something much bigger than any single issue. As a woman, yes, I care about healthcare, education, and opportunities. But what I care about most is that we remain a nation where freedom and truth are protected, where we honor God and uphold the values that have made us strong. Our children’s future, our religious freedom, our ability to live in a country grounded in justice and righteousness—these are the reasons I’m voting. This election isn’t about fighting for special interests; it’s about protecting the foundation of this great country. Proverbs 29:2 says, “When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice: but when the wicked rule, the people mourn.” I cannot sit back and allow our nation to fall into the hands of those who would destroy its core values. So, I’m voting not as a woman with a single-issue focus, but as an American who cares deeply about the survival of this nation. This vote is about saving our country, about ensuring that we pass on a future where freedom, faith, and family remain strong. It’s not about politics—it’s about principle. Let’s be clear: the time for complacency is over. If we don’t act now, we risk losing the very things that make America the land of the free. That’s why I’m voting, and why you must, too. Our nation’s future depends on it.
Beats From Your Pastor’s Heart
HEARING HIS VOICE
John 10:27, “My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me.”
Jesus promises that those who belong to Him will hear and recognize His voice.
Our Shepherd knows us intimately, speaking in ways that are personal, clear, and marked by truth.
But in the busyness of life, the distractions, fears, and worries we carry can muffle His call.
To truly know His voice requires us to be intentional about creating quiet moments in our day, listening through prayer, engaging with Scripture, and seeking the Spirit’s guidance.
When we tune into His voice, we grow closer to Him and find the strength to follow wherever He leads.
SAMUEL: As a young boy, Samuel heard God’s voice calling him in the night, but he didn’t recognize it at first.
With Eli’s guidance, he responded, “Speak, Lord, for thy servant heareth” (1 Samuel 3:9).
Samuel’s openness to God’s voice led him to a lifetime of prophetic ministry.
His story reminds us that God calls each of us, often in quiet, unexpected moments, and that a heart ready to listen and respond is essential.
ELIJAH: After fleeing to a cave in fear, Elijah encountered God in a “still, small voice” rather than the expected thunder, wind, or earthquake (1 Kings 19:11-12).
This quiet, gentle whisper reminded Elijah that God’s presence and guidance are often found in moments of stillness and humility rather than grand signs.
JESUS’ DISCIPLES: When Jesus called His disciples, they left everything to follow Him because they recognized the authority and love in His voice (Matthew 4:19).
Their lives were transformed by their decision to follow His voice, even when the path was uncertain.
They teach us the value of immediate obedience and faith in response to Jesus’ call.
Imagine a crowded room filled with people speaking at once.
If a loved one calls your name, even among the noise, you recognize their voice instantly because you know them deeply.
In a similar way, hearing Jesus’ voice depends on our familiarity with Him.
The more we spend time in His presence, through prayer and reading His Word, the more His voice will stand out from the noise of life.
Just as we’d recognize the voice of a loved one, we’ll come to know and trust the voice of our Shepherd who speaks with love, wisdom, and guidance.
PRAYER
Lord, thank You for speaking to me with clarity and love. I pray that You would help me recognize Your voice amidst the noise of life. Give me a heart that desires to follow wherever You lead and a spirit that delights in Your presence. Help me to trust in Your wisdom and respond with obedience. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
APPLICATION
Hearing God’s voice is about more than simply listening; it’s about responding with a heart willing to trust and obey.
Start by setting aside time each day to quiet your mind, praying and reading Scripture without distraction.
As you read, ask the Holy Spirit to reveal God’s message to you, and be patient as you learn to distinguish His voice from other influences.
In moments of decision, remember that God’s voice always aligns with Scripture, brings peace, and leads to spiritual growth.
Listening also means acting in faith, even if His call requires change, sacrifice, or new direction.
MONDAY’S PRAYER REQUESTS
Danny Jarrard
David Newby
Amy Garner’s Mom
Angela Bryan’s Sister
Ben Bruce
Carol Lawhead
Daniel Cooper’s Mother
Danny Jarrard
Darlene Wiggins
David Burnette
Denise Hulsey – Jordan’s G’mother
Donna Plunkett’s Brother in law
Donnie Butler’s Dad
Doris Loyd
Dr. and Mrs. Davis
Ed Mays
Ellen Boyd
Eric Magnusson’s Mother
Eric Ward
Faith Burnette
Freddie May’s Mom
Friend of Linda Hodge
Gail Sparks
George & Linda Alexander
George Calhoon
James Burnette
James Parker
James Parker
Joanie/Jeanie Mom
Jodi Bateman
John McClain’s Mother
June Cronan’s Sister
June Davis
Kailey Bateman
Kathryn Raines
Kim McClain
Kim McClain’s Mother
Krista Hilscher
Larry Barker
Lee Cronan
Lillanna Magnusson’s Mom
Linda Breedlove’s Sister – Sarah
Linda Hodges’ Sister
Lonzo Christin
Lori Blount’s Mother
Mary William’s Granddaughter
Mary Williams
Mary Williamson – Dana Jackson’s Mom
Marynell Ford
Matt Barron’s Mother
Maureen Brown
Michael Stanley
Nora Allison
Pastor Driskell
Rose Fuller – Pruitt-Monroe Nursing Home, Forsyth GA
Sandra Graham’s Family
Sarah Parker
Scott Lanier
Steve Michaels
Tom Graham (Sandra’s Husband)
Tom Witcher