Be Glad that He Is Your Shepherd By Major Frank Materu
Key Scripture: “The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. He makes me lie down in green pastures. He leads me beside still waters.” – Psalm 23:1-2
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Introduction:
In times of turmoil and confusion, it is vital to remember that we have a Shepherd who watches over us, guides us, and provides for us. The world offers many false shepherds—demonic forces that mislead, deceive, and ultimately destroy. Yet, as believers, we are called to rejoice that the Lord is our Shepherd, and under His guidance, we lack nothing. He leads us beside still waters and restores our souls. This message invites us to find peace and security in the loving care of our Heavenly Shepherd, who desires to bring us back to His fold, away from the snares of the evil one, and into the safety of His protection.
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The Evil Shepherd and His Destructive Path
“The thief does not come except to steal, and to kill, and to destroy. I have come that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly.” – John 10:10
The evil shepherd, represented by Satan and his demonic forces, seeks to lead people down a path of destruction. While many may believe they are free, they are in reality captive to sin and darkness, heading toward eternal separation from God. The enemy’s purpose is to steal, kill, and destroy the lives of those who are deceived by his lies. He offers false freedom, but this freedom only leads to captivity. As believers, we must reject this false shepherd and follow the true Shepherd who guides us into abundant life.
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Rejoice, for the Lord is Your Shepherd
“The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. He makes me lie down in green pastures. He leads me beside still waters.” – Psalm 23:1-2
Those who are glad to have the Lord as their Shepherd will know the goodness and mercy that He provides daily. He leads us to places of rest and restoration, where we are refreshed and renewed in our faith. Despite the chaos and adversity around us, God’s guidance is constant, and His provision is abundant. As His sheep, we are safe in His care, knowing that He will never leave us nor forsake us. We are called to be joyful and thankful that the Lord is our Shepherd, and we can trust in His guidance and protection.
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The Shepherd Who Seeks the Lost Sheep
“For the Son of Man has come to seek and to save that which was lost.” – Luke 19:10
Just as a shepherd seeks out the lost sheep, so does our Heavenly Father seek to bring back those who have wandered away. The story of the prodigal son illustrates this truth—no matter how far we stray, God is always ready to welcome us back with open arms. His love is unconditional, and His desire is for us to return to His fold where we can find forgiveness, healing, and restoration. We need not wander in the desolation of sin and loneliness because our Shepherd is always ready to guide us back to Him.
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The Role of Jesus Christ as Our Shepherd
“I am the good shepherd; the good shepherd gives His life for the sheep.” – John 10:11
Jesus Christ is the ultimate Shepherd, laying down His life for the sheep. His sacrifice on the cross provides us with salvation and eternal life. Through Him, we are reconciled to God, and through His guidance, we are led into the fullness of His purpose for our lives. Jesus is not just a guide; He is the Savior who brings us into a relationship with God, protecting us from the dangers of the world and offering us the gift of eternal life.
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Summary:
The Lord is our Shepherd, and we are called to be glad in His care. The enemy, the false shepherd, seeks to deceive and destroy, but our true Shepherd leads us to safety, providing for all our needs and restoring our souls. Jesus, the good Shepherd, laid down His life for us so that we might have life abundantly. No matter how far we may wander, God is always ready to welcome us back into His fold. Let us rejoice that we have a Shepherd who loves us and leads us in paths of righteousness.
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Conclusion:
In a world filled with deceit and destruction, we have the assurance that the Lord is our Shepherd. He leads us with love, care, and protection, and we lack nothing under His guidance. Let us rejoice and be thankful for His goodness, knowing that He will never leave us or forsake us. As His sheep, we are safe, and we can trust in His perfect plan for our lives.
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Call to Action:
If you have not yet made the Lord your Shepherd, I encourage you to invite Him into your life today. Trust in His guidance and protection, and know that He will lead you into abundant life. Let go of the false shepherds of this world and follow the true Shepherd who loves you and laid down His life for you.
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Final Word of Encouragement:
Remember, no matter what struggles or challenges you face, you are never alone. The Lord, your Shepherd, is with you, guiding you every step of the way. Trust in His leading, rest in His care, and rejoice in the abundant life He offers you. He is your Shepherd, and you are His beloved sheep.
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Salvation Prayer:
If you would like to make Jesus Christ your Shepherd, please pray this prayer:
“Lord Jesus, I come before You today acknowledging that I am a sinner in need of Your forgiveness. I believe that You are the Son of God, and that You died for my sins and rose again to give me eternal life. I ask You to forgive me, and I invite You into my heart as my Lord and Savior. Lead me and guide me as my Shepherd, and help me to follow Your ways. Thank You for Your love and salvation. In Jesus' name, Amen.”
