THE HUB

Sheep to the Shepherd

Devotional

How does a shepherd pursue a lost sheep? The shepherd calls out to the sheep once he finds it and goes after it. As God’s sheep, we are prone to wonder and He calls out to us to return to the flock. Many voices try to drown out God’s calling and steal the joy God gives us. We can find our way back to the flock if we take the time to listen carefully to God’s voice.

1 “Very truly I tell you Pharisees, anyone who does not enter the sheep pen by the gate, but climbs in by some other way, is a thief and a robber. 2 The one who enters by the gate is the shepherd of the sheep. 3 The gatekeeper opens the gate for him, and the sheep listen to his voice. He calls his own sheep by name and leads them out. 4 When he has brought out all his own, he goes on ahead of them, and his sheep follow him because they know his voice. 5 But they will never follow a stranger; in fact, they will run away from him because they do not recognize a stranger’s voice.” 6 Jesus used this figure of speech, but the Pharisees did not understand what he was telling them. 7 Therefore Jesus said again, “Very truly I tell you, I am the gate for the sheep. 8 All who have come before me are thieves and robbers, but the sheep have not listened to them. 9 I am the gate; whoever enters through me will be saved. They will come in and go out, and find pasture. 10 The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full. 11 “I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep."

JOHN 10:1-11

Questions:

  • From this passage, what encouraged you, challenged you or spoke to you most and why?
  • In which area(s) of your life is it difficult for you to trust Jesus as the Good Shepherd?
  • Jesus says his sheep know His voice. What things could personally help you to know, listen to and obey Jesus’ voice more?
  • “Thieves take advantage of our desire to be someone or someplace else.” How have you seen this play out in your life?

Practice The Way of Jesus:

In this passage, we learn that while God wants to protect us, there are "forces" that are trying to ruin us. How can you hear God's voice admist the attacks? This week, consider how you can come to the One who wants to give you abundant life.

Read for further study: "Live Live No Lies: Recognize and Resist the Three Enemies That Sabotage Your Peace"