I am the good shepherd, and know my sheep, and am known of mine. John 10:14 KJV
Most people know that a shepherd is a keeper of sheep. Throughout the bible we meet famous shepherds like Moses and King David. Moses cared for his father in law’s sheep after fleeing from Egypt. David cared for his father’s sheep before gaining fame for slaying the giant Goliath and eventually becoming king.
These famous words of David from Psalm 23:1-4 reveal God as a shepherd saying, “The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters. He restoreth my soul: he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name’s sake. Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me. KJV”
The bible uses the metaphor of God as a shepherd many times. From Jacob in Genesis to Moses and the people of Israel in Exodus, God reveals himself as a shepherd protecting and providing for his chosen people. In Ezekiel 34:1 we read, “For this is what the Sovereign LORD says: I myself will search for my sheep and look after them. NIV”
Jesus Is the Good Shepherd
Likewise, Jesus referred to himself as a shepherd. Confronted by the Pharisees about his disciples breaking the law of the sabbath, Jesus answered the charge in Matthew 12:11, “And he said unto them, what man shall there be among you, that shall have one sheep, and if it falls into a pit on the sabbath day, will he not lay hold on it, and lift it out? KJV” Jesus is the good shepherd. Unlike the Pharisees, Christ was willing to lay down his life for God’s children.
Jesus used the metaphor of being a shepherd to demonstrate his willingness to protect and provide for believers. Like a good shepherd, Christ is present with us. Although we had strayed, he gathered us with the rest of the flock. He guides us through the wilderness of the world to the promised land of heaven.
Prayer: “Father God, thank you for sending Jesus to be the good shepherd. I am grateful to know him and humbled that he knows me and that I know you through him. Guide me with your word. I will not want because you are with me. In Jesus’ name – Amen”
Yesterday’s Devotional: The Lord Knows
