Distracted Sheep

READ: PSALM 23; JOHN 10:1-30

Did you know that sheep can be easily distracted? If a shepherd is leading a flock, and a stranger gets in the way, the sheep can lose their focus on the shepherd and scatter. And when sheep scatter, they can get into trouble. They might get stuck in dangerous places, or they could be attacked by a hungry predator. Away from the protection and care of the shepherd, sheep are lost and vulnerable. That’s why they need to keep their eyes and ears trained on the shepherd.

Throughout the Bible, God compares us to sheep. And when Jesus came, He said, “I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep” (John 10:11). Sometimes we can be easily distracted and forget to stay focused on Jesus, which leads to problems. But Jesus died on the cross and rose from the grave to forgive us and save us from sin and death, and He promises to care for us and provide for all our needs. He’s the One we should always follow.

But even when we do get distracted and wander away—when we’re captivated by people or possessions or ideas, chasing after them in hopes they’ll solve our problems or satisfy the deep longings of our hearts—our Good Shepherd chases after us. When we are lost and vulnerable, He has compassion on us. Every day, every moment, He helps us leave sin behind and follow Him.

There’s nothing in this world that can give us the peace and joy that Jesus does. So, when we get distracted and start looking to created things to provide what only the Creator can give us, we can listen for our Good Shepherd’s gentle voice. He speaks to us through His Spirit, His Word (the Bible), and His people (the church). We can rely on His love for us and trust Him to lead us well. And even when the temptations are strong, as Christians, we have the Holy Spirit living within us, helping us turn away from sin and turn our eyes and ears upon Jesus once again. Instead of trying to solve our problems on our own, we can bring all our concerns to Him and trust Him to lead us where He wants us to go. • A. W. Smith

• Do you know anyone who looks to Jesus to guide them in their daily life? What is it like to be around them?

• Consider taking some time to talk to Jesus. You can ask for His help with tough situations and temptations, confess any sins that come to mind, and rest in His never-failing love for you. If you want to dig deeper, read Isaiah 40:11; 53:4-6; Zechariah 10:2; Mark 6:34; Luke 15:1-7. And if you want to know more about trusting Jesus to be your Shepherd, check out our "Know Jesus" page.

For “you were like sheep going astray,” but now you have returned to the Shepherd and Overseer of your souls. 1 Peter 2:25 (NIV)