Jesus, The Good Shepherd

Shepherds take care of their sheep, moving their flocks from field to field, making sure the sheep have enough to eat. They find quiet streams so the sheep can drink water in peace. When wild animals threaten the flock, the shepherd chases away the predators.

At night, shepherds lead their sheep into a community pen. Then they lay down and sleep at the entrance to protect their sheep from danger.

In the morning, shepherds gently call their sheep by name. Each sheep recognizes the voice of its shepherd and follows him out of the pen and into the pasture. The sheep trust their shepherd.

In the Old Testament, King David, the youngest son in his family, spent many hours in the hills surrounding his home taking care of his family’s herd.

David embraced his role wholeheartedly. He herded the sheep into fertile places so they would have enough to eat. He found peaceful streams so they could drink without feeling threatened. And whenever a wild animal came near, David took out his slingshot, loaded it up with a smooth stone, and chased away the predator.

Throughout his life, David relied on God to be his shepherd. Because the Lord was with him, David feared no evil. He trusted the Lord to guide him, especially through his darkest dangers, even when he faced death. The Lord blessed David beyond what his cup could hold.

When Jesus compared Himself to the good shepherd, His audience understood these things. Jesus had already promised those who trusted Him that He was the bread of life. He also promised to give them living water that would quench their thirsty soul. He promised guidance by being the light of the world who would lead His followers out of the darkness. Now, by comparing Himself to a good shepherd, He promised to protect His sheep and provide for them. He even promised to voluntarily lay His life down for them.

Jesus said, “My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me. I give them eternal life, and they will never perish. No one can snatch them away from me, for my Father has given them to me, and he is more powerful than anyone else. No one can snatch them from the Father’s hand” (John 10:27-29, NLT).

Jesus has promised to be a good shepherd to those who follow Him, including you. He gave His life so you could know that your sins are forgiven. You can know His voice and follow Him. Listen for His still, quiet voice, especially as you read Scripture. Trust Him to guide you to the places He wants you to go.

Reflect:

How do you respond when you hear the voice of the Good Shepherd?

Are you following the Good Shepherd, trusting Him to meet your needs?

Pray:

Thank You, Jesus, for being my shepherd. Teach me to hear Your voice and to follow You. Keep me from following the voice of a stranger. Thank You for leading me into the places where You want me to go.

About the Author: Anne Marie Winz has been a staff member with Cru for a long time. She enjoys drinking coffee, reading good books and talking with her girlfriends. She’s married to the amazing Mark Winz.