“The sheep hear his voice, and he calls his own sheep by name and leads them out.”
John 10: 1-18
Who are you trusting to lead you on a new path?
A new path can be exciting. Being outside, breathing in the fresh air, seeing the beauty of creation all around is so invigorating. Have you ever had an opportunity to hike up to Sharp Top Mountain that belongs to the Peaks of Otter Area in the Southern Appalachian Range near Bedford, Virginia? Maybe you’ve been fortunate enough to visit the Smoky Mountains, explore the Matanuska Glacier, the Grand Canyon, the Boundary Waters, Glacier National Park, or many other spectacular sites? If so, you know that one of the important things to keep in mind when driving or hiking in a new area is to be sure that you have GPS, a map, or a guide of the area so you can always find your way home – always keeping in mind that your GPS may not work in areas that have no service. When you’re on a new path, you need a good map and an excellent guide. When exploring new areas, it’s easy to get lost. Sometimes the trails are not marked appropriately. When you trust your guide, you know that you’re on the right trail to get to your destination and back home.
Jesus is the good shepherd that guides us along the new path of life.
In John 10:11, Jesus says, “I am the Good Shepherd. The Good Shepherd lays down his life for his sheep.” Jesus clearly says that he is good, and that he will shepherd us. Shepherd, meaning to take care of us and show us the way. He even says he is planning to give his life for us. In verse three, he says that “the sheep hear his voice, and he calls his own sheep by name and leads them out.” Our Good Shepherd goes ahead of us. He leads the way. He communicates with us. It is a great comfort to know that we are not on this journey of life alone. Through the highs and lows of life we have the Holy Spirit, a constant presence to be with us each step of the way. He is the best guide for every situation in life, including your journey of healthy living.
Seek help if you are struggling on the new path of your journey.
The path to a lifestyle of healthy living requires guidance. If you are struggling with any area of this journey, it is important to seek help. We are here to help. The good shepherd is close by to hear you pour out your heart. As you read scripture and pray, you will experience his peace and strength to help you navigate this path.
Questions:
- Is it easier to ask for direction or assistance when it is to a physical place, as opposed to leaning into guidance for emotional or health issues?
- Do you believe there is a stigma attached to asking for help to achieve weight loss or health goals?
- Would you be able to say that you have invited Jesus into every space in your life, including your journey of healthy living?
Song: