The Bite-Sized Gospel with Aneel Aranha
The Bite-Sized Gospel with Aneel Aranha
Day 220
Discover the contrast between failing earthly kingdoms and Jesus as the Good Shepherd through Ezekiel 28-30 and John 10, finding true security in His sacrificial care.
Reflection
In today's readings, we see contrasting leaders and kingdoms. Ezekiel 28-30 pronounces judgment on proud nations and failed leaders who trusted in their own power. John 10 reveals Jesus as the Good Shepherd who knows His sheep personally and protects them sacrificially. He offers security that earthly kingdoms cannot provide.
The key insight we can draw from these passages is this: Earthly power crumbles under divine judgment, but Jesus offers lasting security through His sacrificial love and intimate knowledge of those who follow Him.
Let's break this down into a simple principle:
Trust in Jesus as your Good Shepherd rather than earthly powers, and follow His voice with confidence in His protective care.
Here are five practical steps we can take to apply today's readings:
1. Write down one area where you're trusting in your own abilities instead of God's provision.
2. Spend 10 minutes in quiet, listening for Jesus' voice through Scripture or prayer.
3. Identify one person in your life who needs to hear about the Good Shepherd and pray for an opportunity to share.
4. Choose one decision this week where you'll consciously follow Jesus' leading instead of popular opinion.
5. Thank Jesus specifically for one way He has protected or provided for you recently.
As you go about your day, reflect on this question: What "kingdoms" or sources of security are you building that might crumble like Tyre and Egypt?
Conclusion
Thank you for joining me today. Earthly powers fade, but the Good Shepherd's care endures forever. Trust His voice above all others. Until tomorrow, may you rest secure in the Shepherd's faithful protection.