A New Heart: A Study in EzekielVoorbeeld

What does it say?

Ezekiel preached against the shepherds who had been entrusted to guide Israel. The Lord would rescue His people as their Good Shepherd.

What does it mean?

God was angry at the lack of integrity of Israel’s leaders. They had abused their power, serving themselves rather than the best interests of His people. Many of the Israelites were following their rulers’ wicked precedence of utter disregard for their fellow countrymen. Ezekiel’s message brought hope that God Himself would take over. The complete fulfillment of these prophesies awaits the millennial reign of Jesus, when the Good Shepherd will seek out His defenseless, lost sheep to save them from terror and bondage. He will destroy those whose selfish ambitions were starving His flock. Making the decision to follow the Good Shepherd leads to an abundant, peaceful life. He offers to direct the steps of any who obey His voice.

How should I respond?

Sheep have a natural tendency to follow the one right in front of them, often causing the entire flock to be led into danger. It’s not a coincidence that the Bible refers to us as sheep. Like sheep, we need a shepherd's guidance, provision, and protection to lead and rescue us from danger. Jesus is our Good Shepherd who stepped in to save us from our lost, defenseless state when He paid the penalty for our sins on the cross. How do you respond to the Good Shepherd’s voice? Are you heeding His direction? What steps might He be guiding you to adjust? Today, ask God to help you trust Him to lead you by His Word and Spirit. His guidance brings ultimate security and peace.