Living in the pasture of Good Shepherd

John 10:9 (NCV) “I am the door, and the person who enters through me will be saved and will be able to come in and go out and find pasture.”

After reading John 10:9, I am reminded of the 23rd Psalm. In this Psalm David writes “The Lord is my shepherd I have everything I need.” (Psalm 23:1 NCV) As I read these verses together I feel reassured and comforted. Based on these two verses, I'm safe and secure in the pasture of the living God. The Shepherd’s pasture provides protection from the thief who wants nothing more than to steal, kill and destroy (John 10:10 NIV) my life.

In the His pasture, I am guided beside still waters and given new strength. Because I listen to the Shepherd’s voice, I am escorted down paths that lead to abundant life. Even if I walk through a dark valley, I have nothing to fear because He gathers me in his arms and gently helps me (Isaiah 40:11).

I am confident in the Shepherd's love because He laid down his life so that I may enter through the only gate that brings eternal life.

Shepherd, help me to hear your voice clearly in this world of wolves and thieves.