< Back

Read: John 10:10-18
Listen: John 10

I am the good shepherd; I know my sheep and my sheep know me—just as the Father knows me and I know the Father—and I lay down my life for the sheep. John 10:14-15

Jesus refers to himself as the Good Shepherd to the religious leaders. This is not a coincidence but an intentional declaration that he is the long-awaited Son of David. King David was the shepherd king. In his early life, he was a shepherd boy who tended sheep. He led, cared for and protected his flock. He did the same as the king. “David reigned over all Israel, doing what was just and right for all his people” (2 Samuel 8:15). David’s selfless leadership led to the flourishing of Israel. It was a temporary return to Eden where peace, well-being and justice prevailed. Jesus promises to be the same kind of king, but this time it will be forever.

The nation of Israel followed David’s leadership without reservation because he was selfless and trustworthy. Jesus promises to be the same type of shepherd king. Yet, it can be difficult to surrender our will to him. Our shepherd promises to guide us, protect us and care for us no matter the circumstance. Jesus’s sacrifice on the cross proves that he has our best interest in mind, and we can trust him. Jesus is a selfless king who laid down life so we can experience Eden here and now. We can have confidence that he will lead us to green pastures and an abundant life, even in our struggles.

TODAY: We all have things in our lives we haven’t surrendered to God. Take a moment to journal about where you are in need of redemption and allow Jesus to lead you out of it. It could be in your relationships, work, finances, parenting or habits. Ask God to help you turn it over to Jesus and trust his leadership.

JESUS IN THE OLD TESTAMENT:

Read Micah 3. Highlight anything that points to Jesus. Note Jesus as the true and righteous leader (Matthew 20:25-28).