I Am, Part 4 | Jesus, The Good Shepherd
Key Thought | Knowing Jesus as our Shepherd allows us to live with trust instead of fear, even in uncertain places.
Key Scripture | “I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd sacrifices his life for the sheep.” —John 10:11
As we continue this seven-part journey through the “I Am” statements, the picture becomes more personal. In Part 3, Jesus revealed Himself as the Gate—the place of access, safety, and entry into life with God. Now, He shows us what life on the other side of the gate looks like.
Jesus says, “I am the good shepherd.” Not distant. Not detached. Present, watchful, and deeply committed to the care of His sheep.
Psalm 23 gives us language for this kind of Shepherd. One who leads us to rest, restores our souls, and guides us along the right paths. Even when the path winds through dark valleys, His nearness changes everything. Fear doesn’t disappear because danger is gone. It fades because the Shepherd is near.
A good shepherd doesn’t just comfort; he also corrects. Scripture reminds us that God’s discipline is not rejection, but love in action. Correction isn’t punishment, It’s protection. The Shepherd uses His rod and staff not to harm, but to guide and guard what belongs to Him.
Jesus contrasts Himself with the hired hand, the one who runs when things get hard. But the Good Shepherd stays. He knows His sheep. He sees the threats they don’t. And when danger comes, He lays down His life rather than abandon those in His care.
When we truly know the Shepherd, something shifts within us. We begin to live by faith instead of fear. We learn to trust not just where He leads, but how He leads—with wisdom, patience, and unfailing love.
Knowing Jesus as your Shepherd doesn’t mean the journey will always be easy, but it does mean you’ll never walk it alone. Wherever you find yourself today—resting, wandering, or walking through a valley—He is close, attentive, and faithful to lead you forward.
Prayer | Jesus, thank You for being my Good Shepherd. Help me trust Your guidance, even when I don’t understand the path. Teach me to rest in Your care and to follow Your voice with confidence and peace. Amen.
Reflection
Key Scripture | “I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd sacrifices his life for the sheep.” —John 10:11
As we continue this seven-part journey through the “I Am” statements, the picture becomes more personal. In Part 3, Jesus revealed Himself as the Gate—the place of access, safety, and entry into life with God. Now, He shows us what life on the other side of the gate looks like.
Jesus says, “I am the good shepherd.” Not distant. Not detached. Present, watchful, and deeply committed to the care of His sheep.
Psalm 23 gives us language for this kind of Shepherd. One who leads us to rest, restores our souls, and guides us along the right paths. Even when the path winds through dark valleys, His nearness changes everything. Fear doesn’t disappear because danger is gone. It fades because the Shepherd is near.
A good shepherd doesn’t just comfort; he also corrects. Scripture reminds us that God’s discipline is not rejection, but love in action. Correction isn’t punishment, It’s protection. The Shepherd uses His rod and staff not to harm, but to guide and guard what belongs to Him.
Jesus contrasts Himself with the hired hand, the one who runs when things get hard. But the Good Shepherd stays. He knows His sheep. He sees the threats they don’t. And when danger comes, He lays down His life rather than abandon those in His care.
When we truly know the Shepherd, something shifts within us. We begin to live by faith instead of fear. We learn to trust not just where He leads, but how He leads—with wisdom, patience, and unfailing love.
Knowing Jesus as your Shepherd doesn’t mean the journey will always be easy, but it does mean you’ll never walk it alone. Wherever you find yourself today—resting, wandering, or walking through a valley—He is close, attentive, and faithful to lead you forward.
Prayer | Jesus, thank You for being my Good Shepherd. Help me trust Your guidance, even when I don’t understand the path. Teach me to rest in Your care and to follow Your voice with confidence and peace. Amen.
Reflection
- Where have you sensed God’s guidance or protection in your life recently?
- Is there an area where Jesus may be inviting you to trust His leading more deeply?
We'd love to hear from you! Let us know in the comments what God is speaking to you as you read these devotionals. If you haven't already subscribed to receive our devotional emails right to your inbox, hit the subscribe button below and invite your family and friends to subscribe as well! Thank you for being a part of our Opendoor Devotional Community. We appreciate you!
No Comments