How do you distinguish which voices to listen to? How do you distinguish wise counsel from bad or misleading advice? The LORD came as the Good Shepherd to reveal God’s truths in love. He speaks to His sheep today through His Holy Spirit, amplifying His word in love and grace.
Jesus saw multitudes of people with many needs. He came full of compassion. He had a lot He wanted to say to those with ears to hear, eyes to see and hearts to understand God’s love and truth. The Bible says He came “moved with compassion for them, because they were weary and scattered, like sheep having no shepherd” (Matthew 9:36).
“I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep….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 on behalf of the sheep. Also I have other sheep which are not from this pen; I need to bring them, and they will hear my voice; and there will be one flock, one shepherd” (John 10:11-18 JNT).
RELEVANCE
In the midst of a world of conflict, corruption and political tension, the LORD arrived on the scene to make a difference. He came in a different way than most had expected. He came as a different type of king and high priest; as the Good Shepherd of God’s flock. He expressed genuine care for the people, served without self-interest and gave them hope for the future.
REFLECT AND RELATE
With so many voices fighting for your attention, how do you discern the voice of the Shepherd leading and guiding you daily? How do you spend time with your Shepherd, receiving His insights, counsel and wisdom?
REFERENCES
John 10:11-29