The Shepherd’s Care

I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep. The hired man, since he is not the shepherd and doesn’t own the sheep, leaves them and runs away when he sees a wolf coming.

John 10:11-12, HCSB

IF YOU, AS AN EMPLOYER, had to choose between a man who simply needed a job to make ends meet and a man who had great passion for the work of your company, which one (assuming they were both of good character) would you choose? Would you choose the man who had desire and passion? Why? Because the other guy is more likely to bail when the going gets tough. He also might not put as much effort into the work. In the end, you will get a better result from the man who cares about the work of your company.

Jesus is not like the man who bails when things get difficult. Instead, He cares deeply about His mission, which is to save us and sanctify us and bring us safely home. Jesus provides for us and protects us, just as a shepherd does for his sheep. When a threat from the enemy comes our way, He guides us to paths of life. When we wander away from Him, He seeks us out and nudges us back to safety. When we are needy, He shows up with exactly what we need.

Jesus laid down His life for the sheep (us)—He willingly went to the cross to die in our place. He doesn’t run away when He sees the wolf come—He goes before us and behind us, giving us abundant life. You can trust in His care.

BOTTOM LINE

Jesus laid down His life so that we can receive eternal life. Do you believe He will guide you and protect you? Or are you living in fear?

Moment of Strength: Hebrews 13:20-21