18 - The Good Shepherd
Scripture Passages: John 10:11-18, Psalm 23, Hebrews 13:20-21
Devotional
Today, we will see another one of the I AM statements in the book of John when Jesus says I AM the Good Shepherd. As the Good Shepherd, the invitation He offers is both simple and profound: follow Him.
At first, being compared to sheep might not sound like a compliment. Sheep aren’t known for their intelligence, and they’re completely dependent on their shepherd. But that’s the beauty of this illustration—Jesus is showing us that even in our weakness, we have a loving, attentive Shepherd who never leaves us. In Him, we find everything we need—no need to search elsewhere or wander off. When we follow the Good Shepherd, we are led to rest, refreshed, guided, and comforted. He knows our every need and is always faithful to meet it.
The Good Shepherd Loves and Leads
Jesus contrasts Himself with the religious leaders of His time—those who were more concerned with power than truly caring for people. In contrast, Jesus genuinely loves His sheep. Matthew 9:36 says, “But when he saw the multitudes, he was moved with compassion on them, because they fainted, and were scattered abroad, as sheep having no shepherd.”
Maybe you’ve experienced leadership that was self-serving rather than self-sacrificing. Maybe you’ve been let down by people who should have cared for you. But Jesus is different—He leads with love, and He never abandons His flock.
The Good Shepherd Knows His Sheep
Jesus doesn’t just care for His sheep—He knows them personally. John 10:14 says, “I am the good shepherd, and know my sheep, and am known of mine.” A good shepherd knows each of his sheep individually—their habits, their weaknesses, their tendencies to wander. And Jesus knows you that intimately. He knows your struggles, your fears, and your needs. Even better, He wants you to know Him.
Psalm 139:1 reminds us, “O Lord, thou hast searched me, and known me.” You are fully known and fully loved. That should give us incredible confidence in following His voice!
The Good Shepherd Gave His Life for the Sheep
The ultimate proof of Jesus’ love is in John 10:11: “I am the good shepherd: the good shepherd giveth his life for the sheep.” Unlike a hired worker who runs when danger comes, Jesus willingly laid down His life for us. He saw the danger of sin and death, and instead of fleeing, He stepped in to take our place.
Romans 5:8 declares, “But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.” Because of His sacrifice, we are safe. We are secure. We are loved. And just as Jesus gave His life for us, He also rose again, proving that nothing—not even death—can separate us from His love.
Following the Good Shepherd
Jesus is the Good Shepherd. He leads, He protects, He knows, and He gave His life for us, the question is—are we following Him? Do we trust His leading? Or do we, like stubborn sheep, try to find our own way?
Are you truly following His lead, seeking His guidance, and trusting in His care? If not, today is the day to turn to Him. Follow the Good Shepherd, and as you do, you’ll experience His goodness and mercy following you, now and forever.
Prayer:
Lord, thank You for being my Good Shepherd. Help me to trust Your leading, to follow Your voice, and to rest in Your love. When I am tempted to stray, remind me that You are always near. Thank You for laying down Your life for me. I choose to follow You today. Amen.