“I am the Good Shepherd ; I know my own sheep and they know me.” John 10:14 (NLT)
Jesus, the Good Shepard. He knows each one by name. He leads them to pastures. He is the gate and through Him all are saved. They come and go freely finding good pastures. Jesus purpose is to give life, rich and satisfying. He willingly sacrificed His life. He protects and cares for each one.
A parable of Jesus care, protection and provision for those who trust and follow Him. He knows my name! He cares about when I come and when I go. He not only provides for me, but His provision is life giving and eternal. I can and do trust Him. I know His voice and I follow His leading.
I think for some it may be difficult to understand the goodness of Christ because of what we see happening around us. But, that is the very reason He came. There is a real and evil enemy who works to destroy lives, to cause division, to turn us to hate, to bring despair and hopelessness. Verse 10 says “the thief’ purpose is to steal, kill and destroy.” Sometimes I want to ask God “Why?” But today I am reminded why, the power of evil is at work destroying lives, leading us to hopelessness, causing brother to turn against brother and wanting us to believe it’s all Gods fault.
There is no promise that life with Christ here on this earth will be easy. But, He does promise He will never leave us and He will walk with us. When I put my hope in His eternal promise, all the difficulties of this life become insignificant. I look to His Word and listen for His voice. He comforts me, he provides for me and He protects me.
I pray today for a fresh perspective. I want to see His presence and work happening in my life and all around me. Lord, help me to see where you are moving, where you bring provision and offer hope. Lead me and use me to bring life, hope, and love to those in my family, my church and in my community. Amen.
What is God speaking to you today in chapter 10 of John? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
