🕊️ PRAY HERE DEVOTION 🕊️ Sheep Need a Shepherd – Pt. 1: Feed Them

Scripture: Ezekiel 34:2–3 (KJV)

“Son of man, prophesy against the shepherds of Israel, prophesy, and say unto them, Thus saith the Lord God unto the shepherds; Woe be to the shepherds of Israel that do feed themselves! should not the shepherds feed the flocks? Ye eat the fat, and ye clothe you with the wool, ye kill them that are fed: but ye feed not the flock.”

Devotion: Although sheep are proven to be very intelligent, they still need a shepherd. Sheep are smart, but they are also innocent, meek, and dependent. They have a tendency to wander and get lost, and when that happens, they become vulnerable to danger and destruction. Sheep have many good qualities, which is why God refers to His people as sheep throughout the Bible.

Have you ever heard the saying, “History repeats itself”? Scripture proves this to be true time and time again. Just like in Ezekiel chapter 34, many years ago, there are still leaders today who are not feeding the sheep.

This is why God makes a promise in Jeremiah 3:15: “I will give you shepherds after My own heart, who will lead you with knowledge and understanding.” This tells us that not everyone is qualified to be a shepherd. You’ve probably heard this scripture taught using the word pastor instead of shepherd. Today’s scripture explains why it is so important to be connected to a leader who is truly after God’s own heart.

In Ezekiel 34:3, God describes leaders who use the sheep for personal gain but do not feed them spiritually. This is a picture of self-serving leadership and neglect. Sometimes this neglect is intentional, and sometimes it happens subtly over time, but the result is the same: the sheep are left unfed and scattered.

God sent Ezekiel with a strong warning: “Woe to the shepherds of Israel who feed themselves! Should not the shepherds feed the flocks?” God was reminding leaders of their responsibility. Sheep must be fed, or they will wander and become lost. This is still the testimony of many people today.

There are countless individuals who no longer attend church because they feel that some leaders are self-serving and disconnected from the people. While this may unfortunately be true in some cases, there are also many faithful pastors who truly have God’s heart and lead with compassion, wisdom, and love.

People of God, do not wander through this world alone. Be intentional about joining a healthy flock led by a God-sent shepherd who feeds you spiritually. And pastors, keep the main thing the main thing; feed God’s people. He has entrusted the flock to you. Be sure you are also being fed and directed by the Chief Shepherd, the One who sent you.

Prayer: Father God, thank You for being our Chief Shepherd. Lead us to places where we are fed, protected, and guided in truth. Heal those who have been hurt or neglected, and restore their trust in You. Raise up shepherds after Your own heart; leaders who care for Your people with integrity and love. Help us to stay connected, grounded, and nourished in You.

In Jesus’ name, Amen.