Beautiful Word Devotional #239

“The Sovereign LORD says: I myself will search for my sheep and look after them.”

Ezekiel 34:11

This word from Ezekiel foreshadows Jesus’ statement that he is the good Shepherd who lays down his life for the sheep, the one who leaves the ninety-nine to find the lost one (see John 10:11 and Luke 15:4). And we are indeed God’s sheep—and that is not a compliment. Like bumbling sheep, we are hopelessly lost at times, we tend to wander the wilderness, and we aren’t known for our courage and wisdom. Yet there is hope.

Our hope lies in our sovereign God, who is at the same time our shepherd. Sovereign means that God rules over the universe, the stars, the moon, and you and me. And as our Shepherd, he watches over all of us with care and compassion.

So whatever you’re facing today, remember the power and the kindness of God, your sovereign Shepherd. Sometimes you need power, and other times, kindness. At times you’ll need both in good measure. And he will always give you what you, his sheep, need.

Lord, please provide me with your power and the ability to share your compassion today, my sovereign Shepherd, amen.