Devotion's by Deborah

Devotion 2-10-24, John 10:2 , 4b- "But he who enters by the door is a shepherd of the sheep... and the sheep follow him because they know his voice." Jesus frequently spoke in word pictures the people would quickly understand. We would do well to make the effort to learn and understand as well. Sheep are different than cows. They must be cared for, watered, and protected. Sheep were kept in sheepfolds at night. This was a fenced area with one exit. The keeper or guard slept across the opening, limiting who or what could enter. The shepherd had a specific call for his sheep. The sheep always recognized and responded to his special call. The shepherd led the sheep, he did not drive them. He walked in front, calling, and they followed. Jesus said He fit several parts of this picture. "I am the door of the sheep."(verse 7) It is through Him, only, that anyone may come into life. He said, "I am the door; if anyone enters through Me, he will be saved,..."(verse 9a) Jesus also said, “I am the good shepherd; the good shepherd lays down His life for the sheep."(verse 11) " I am the good shepherd, and I know My own and My own know Me,"(verse 14) And, " But you do not believe because you are not of My sheep. My sheep hear My voice, and I know them, and they follow Me;"(verses 26-27) God equates us with sheep. Our society does as well, calling the one who does not follow rules the "black sheep." Each one of us must choose. God allows the choice. We must intentionally choose salvation in Jesus Christ or choose not to be saved. Those who choose Jesus, who pray for forgiveness and a new salvation relationship with God, will be saved. They will be Jesus' sheep, listening to and following Him. Psalms 23:1 - 3 - "The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not want. He makes me lie down in green pastures; He leads me beside quiet waters. He restores my soul; He guides me in the paths of righteousness for His name’s sake."