Walking thru Struggles
Scared. Anxious. Sad. Alone. Everyone has experienced each of these things. We often struggle with each or all of them in our lives. This is becoming more and more normal in the world that we live in. No matter how hard we work or strive for happiness, we often fall short. The reality is that each of these feelings has always and will always exist. So how do we walk through these struggles?
In the Bible, we see how man and God have related throughout history. One of my favorite passages, that reveals God’s character and how he relates to us, is found in John 10. It is the passage where Jesus states that “I am the Good Shepherd”. A symbol that we see written on billboards and in church halls. But what does it mean that Jesus is the Good Shepherd?
In John 10, Jesus reveals several characteristics of the Good Shepherd. The first is that He knows His sheep. He demonstrates the love He has for us by how deeply He knows us. When we have a relationship with Christ, we know that He loves us and cares for us. This is demonstrated in this passage because He calls each of His sheep by name. He knows us and cares for every one of us. Not only does Jesus know His sheep, but He also guides and leads them. He directs where the sheep need to go for food, water, and protection. He does the same for us. He guides us and leads us exactly where we need to be. In verse 10, Jesus shows why he came to earth “I came that they may have life and have it abundantly.” He knows what is best for us. It might not always be easy, the thief will come at times to steal, kill, and destroy. When we follow after Jesus, He will lead us and protect us.
Lastly, the Good Shepherd is willing to lay down His life for His sheep. This is exactly what Jesus did for us. He paid the penalty for our sins through His sacrifice on the cross. And through belief in Him, we can obtain salvation and become members of His flock. While we still might struggle with loneliness, anxiety, and fear, as followers of Jesus, we can know that we will be known, loved, protected, and led to the life He desires for every one of us.
Chase Sanders College Minister First Baptist Ruston
