🕊️ PRAY HERE DEVOTION 🕊️ Sheep Need a Shepherd – Part 2: I Am the Good Shepherd

Scripture: John 10:11–14 (NIV)

“I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep.

The hired hand is not the shepherd and does not own the sheep. So when he sees the wolf coming, he abandons the sheep and runs away. Then the wolf attacks the flock and scatters it.

The man runs away because he is a hired hand and cares nothing for the sheep.

I am the good shepherd; I know my sheep and my sheep know me.”

Devotion: The feeling of being cared for with compassion makes a person feel safe. It builds trust and reduces anxiety and fear. When a flock experiences this kind of care, it creates an environment where sheep feel heard, valued, and respected.

When people come from whatever wounds, struggles, or disappointments brought them to church, and they encounter the leadership of a Good Shepherd, it encourages them to stay. Not only do they stay; they grow. They invite others. They serve willingly. They help build the church. Love-led shepherding creates healthy sheep.

Thinking about testimonies where lives were changed because people were worshiping and being fed in a loving environment brings to mind the scripture, “With lovingkindness have I drawn you.”

Wow. Love truly does feel good when it’s the God kind. And it doesn’t just draw people in; it heals them.

Now, while some are blessed to be under good shepherds, there are also many who have scattered because they were not shepherded with compassion. If that were not the case, God would not have spoken so strongly and repeatedly in His Word about bad shepherds and the consequences they face.

For both shepherds and sheep seeking safety, direction, and care; when all else fails, Jesus is our perfect example. In today’s scripture, He clearly says, “I am the good shepherd.” He explains that a good shepherd is willing to lay down his life for the sheep; and Jesus did exactly that for us.

He then compares Himself to a hired hand; someone who serves for personal gain. When danger comes, the hired hand runs away, leaving the sheep vulnerable. But the Good Shepherd, who leads from love and compassion, stays and protects the flock.

Verse 14 is powerful: “I am the good shepherd; I know my sheep and my sheep know me.”

This relationship is built on trust, care, and connection.

This passage does not mean that paid pastors automatically lead selfishly. A shepherd can be paid and still be deeply motivated by love for God and His people. Please don’t misinterpret this scripture. A good shepherd reflects the heart of the Good God who called them.

As we conclude this two-part devotion, we walk away knowing this:

Jesus Christ deeply loves His sheep.

He entrusted pastors to shepherd His people with compassion, to feed them, and to watch over them.

God holds shepherds accountable, and He also provides help and guidance for sheep who are seeking safety and care.

It brings me great joy to know that help is available for all who desire it. Serve the Lord with gladness, stay connected, and be blessed.

Prayer: Father God, thank You for being our Good Shepherd. Thank You for laying down Your life for us and caring for us with compassion. Lead us to healthy flocks and shepherds after Your own heart. Heal those who have been scattered or wounded, and restore their trust in You. Help shepherds lead with love, integrity, and faithfulness. We place ourselves fully in Your care.

In Jesus’ name, Amen.