Guided by the Good Shepherd

“He who is a hired hand and not a shepherd, who does not own the sheep, sees the wolf coming and leaves the sheep and flees, and the wolf snatches them and scatters them…. I am the good shepherd. I know my own and my own know me, just as the Father knows me and I know the Father; and I lay down my life for the sheep”(John 10:12, 14-15, ESV).

Let’s face it, even the most dedicated pastor is a hired hand. He is someone the Savior trusts, an approved workman hired to care for the sheep. Sometimes, though, even a trustworthy servant is no match for a hungry wolf or lion, unless that servant is supernaturally emboldened as David was.

The point here is that even the best pastor will fail you at times. He’s human, after all.  He doesn’t know you the way the Son of God does. Don’t misunderstand me, most of us need the godly counsel of a faithful pastor. At times, we may even need the wisdom of a professional counselor. Scripture tells us that there is wisdom in a multitude of counselors, including our devoted Christian friends. The difference with Jesus is that he is always there for us: “I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep”

We all know the famous scene in the gospels where Jesus turned over the money changers’ tables in the temple. It was a literal act but also symbolic. Jesus was overturning an inferior religious system, declaring in effect, “You leaders are supposed to be shepherds over the people, but you sell sacrifices to them rather than making true sacrifices to the Father. I’m overturning your system. I am the good shepherd who lays down his life for the sheep. I faithfully guide them into the good pastures that will bless and keep their lives.”

If you want true guidance in life, get to know the good shepherd’s voice. It may or may not come to you audibly, but it always comes through his written Word. Do you need direction in your life? He has but two words for you: “Follow me.” Keep your eyes on Jesus. Focus on what his Word says and obey it. You can trust him to lead you into his promise of a rich and satisfying life!