Follow the Good Shepherd

“For this is what the Sovereign Lord says: I myself will search for my sheep and look after them. As a shepherd looks after his scattered flock when he is with them, so will I look after my sheep. I will rescue them from all the places where they were scattered on a day of clouds and darkness.” Ezekiel 34:11-12

Years ago, I was in a bad place.

It was dark and cloudy as I pursued my own sinful pleasures. Angels were not dispatched that day, but the Lord himself sought me out. I wasn’t looking for him when he found me.

Sheep are prone to wander and become vulnerable. They have no claws to defend themselves. Sheep can drown if their wool gets too wet as they wade in to get water to drink.

We are like sheep and have gone astray, as Isaiah 53:6 says. We need a shepherd. Thank goodness God is not far away from each of us (Acts 17:27).

The shepherds in Ezekiel’s day led the people with force and cruelty. Jesus is different. He strengthens the weak and binds up the broken. He seeks out what was lost. He called my name that day and led me out of a black dungeon.

Jesus said, “I am the good shepherd; the good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep. My sheep listen to my voice. I know them and they follow me. I give them eternal life and they shall never perish” (John 10:11, 27-28).

What about your life? Are you in a bad place?

Quit following strangers who don’t care about you. They run as soon as the wolf appears.

Follow the Good Shepherd.

“When he has brought out all his own, he goes ahead of them, and his sheep follow him because they know his voice.” (John 10:4).

Thank you, Lord, for having an interest in me and searching for me when I was lost. I praise you for your goodness and for giving up your life for me so I can live with you forever. Be my shepherd and teach me to follow you. Amen.

By Rich Vega
Used by Permission

Are you at a place in your life where you want to know Jesus – walk and talk with Him? You can start a life surrendered to Christ today. This is a sample, simple prayer, but the words are powerful and full of meaning. If you believe them Christ will make something beautiful out of your life:

Lord Jesus, I want to know You personally. Thank You for dying on the cross for my sins. I open the door of my life to You and ask You to come in as my Savior and Lord. Take control of my life. Thank You for forgiving my sins and giving me eternal life. Make me the kind of person You want me to be.

It starts now!