Following the Shepherd

Though we may endure attacks from those who would silence us when it comes to our belief in Jesus and His call to live for Him, we can find joy in the Lord because we have been anointed with the oil of the Holy Spirit. “You anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows” (Psalm 23:5). Only our Shepherd can provide us with this Spirit-filled, joyful life that empowers us when our enemies attack. The Bible tells us, “[T]he joy of the Lord is your strength” (Nehemiah 8:10).

We will never lack for anything because our Creator’s goodness and mercy will be our constant companions throughout life and for eternity. “Surely your goodness and love will follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever” (Psalm 23:6). This doesn’t mean that we are guaranteed financial wealth, perfect health, or a pain-free life. But our Shepherd knows the deepest needs of our souls, and He alone knows how to fill them.

Our Shepherd is truly like no other—He even gave His own life for us. Jesus tells us, “I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep” (John 10:11). Trust Him alone to take care of your safety, your needs, your relationships. He is never off the clock—He is always providing, always caring, and always watching over us. There is no other shepherd that compares to Him. He alone can give us the comfort and restoration that we need.

The sheep’s only responsibility is to follow the shepherd. And our Good Shepherd wants our obedience to Him. If you have been a wayward sheep, surrender to Him today. If you have been a fearful sheep, scared of the wolves that hunt you, give your anxieties to your Shepherd. Not only can He turn our lives around, but He will show us the way—the safe way, the better way, the right way.

Prayer: Shepherd God, thank You for providing for my deepest needs. Help me to be faithful to follow You and to trust You. I pray in the name of Jesus. Amen