In weakness and pain, we can sometimes feel that God has abandoned us. We believe we are left alone to defend ourselves from the monstrous events in our life. Then feeling defeated, we get deeper into our black hole… we’re resentful, angry and deeply wounded. Does this sound like you? Well, let me tell you what hope you have in Jesus.
As the darkness and fear creeps into your mind and heart, know that you are NEVER alone. The Lord is your Shepherd. Yes, he is constantly watching over you. He tends to your deep wounds and shines His light unto the murky path. If you are lacking trust and faith in Jesus, your Shepherd, I invite you to get to know Him. The following verses talk about His good intentions for you:
- Our Shepherd – “He tends his flock like a shepherd: He gathers the lambs in his arms and carries them close to his heart; he gently leads those that have young.” (Isaiah 40:11) And – “The LORD is my shepherd; I have everything I need.” (Psalm 23)
- Good Shepherd – “I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep.” (John 10:11)
- Great Shepherd – “Jesus is the great Shepherd of the sheep by an everlasting covenant, signed with his blood.” (Hebrews 13:20)
- Head Shepherd – “And when the head Shepherd comes, your reward will be a never-ending share in his glory and honor.” (1 Peter 5:4)
Jesus explains the difference between a good shepherd and a hired hand in John 10:12-14
12 A hired hand will run when he sees a wolf coming. He will leave the sheep because they aren’t his and he isn’t their shepherd. And so the wolf attacks them and scatters the flock. 13 The hired hand runs away because he is merely hired and has no real concern for the sheep. 14 “I am the good shepherd; I know my own sheep, and they know me, He willingly lays his life for them. The sheep are his and he loves them”
Jesus knows His sheep. He knows you by name. He knows your likes, your dislikes, your secrets and innermost fears. And regardless of all your imperfections, He gave His life for you!
There is no greater love for one over the other. He loves them ALL the same. He loves the older sheep as well as the younger sheep. It doesn’t matter how long you have walked with the Lord, you will always need His care. We all need to be ready to hear his voice and run to Him for safety.
The good shepherd cares deeply about His sheep. In Isaiah 40:11 it tells us He tends to them. When the Lord lovingly attempts to care for your wounds, do you resist? Sometimes we run away due to our own fears, not wanting to feel the pain, we run away from God. Instead, He tells us in Matthew 11: 28, “Come to me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest.”
Take a step toward him. You say, “Well I have no strength. My problems are so overwhelming and consuming that I have no more energy to walk.” I have good news. This is where the Lord carries you through your trials. Just let Him pick you up. Don’t resist.
Aren’t you glad He is your Shepherd? I am.
Rest in His Word: Psalm 23: 1
“You, LORD, are my shepherd. I will never be in need.”
Heart Checkup:
- Has the Lord been your Shepherd or have you been led astray?
- Ask God to show you the ways He has been your Shepherd.
- Praise and give thanks to the Lord for always supplying your needs.
