“I will tend them with good pasture, and their grazing place will be on Israel’s lofty mountains. There they will lie down in a good grazing place; they will feed in rich pasture on the mountains of Israel. I will tend My flock and let them lie down.” This is the declaration of the Lord God: “I will seek the lost, bring back the strays, bandage the injured, and strengthen the weak, but I will destroy the fat and the strong; I will shepherd them with justice.” Ezekiel 34:14-16 HCSB
This week God has allowed me to be with all of my family, including two grandchildren, at the beach. It has been an enjoyable time as we have spent time together remembering the past, sharing stories, and playing games. As a father, I want only the best for my children. I still want to protect them and provide for them as much as I can. I would do anything for any of them.
As believers in Jesus Christ, the Son of God, we are children of God. These verses in Ezekiel remind us that God is a good God. He is the Good Shepherd. He wants only the best for His children – His flock. Using the analogy of a shepherd and his flock, God promises good grazing on rich pasture. Psalm 23, which is often read at funerals, is another reminder that God is our Good Shepherd and makes us lie down in green pastures. God seeks the lost, the strays, the injured, and the weak. Jesus stated this His mission was to seek and save the lost (Luke 19:10). God cares about everyone and wants them to be a part of His family.
Challenge: Thank God that as a believer you are a child of God. He cares for you and takes care of you. He promises you an abundant life here and now on this earth and eternal life forever in heaven.