Therefore Jesus said again, “I tell you the truth, I am the gate for the sheep. All who ever came before me were thieves and robbers, but the sheep did not listen to them. I am the gate; whoever enters through me will be saved. He will come in and go out, and find pasture. The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full. John 10:7-10 (NIV)
He is the well that never runs dry – the ever flowing stream of Living Water that quenches every thirsty soul. His eye is constantly upon us for our good – even though hardships may abound – nothing is wasted and will all be used for our greater good. He pleads with us and waits to be ever so gracious to us – entreating us to be reconciled to Him. His Presence goes with us – before and behind us – leading the way and guarding the rear. He never leaves nor forsakes us guiding us always on our treks home through this dusty earth. He takes us from strength to strength and whatever the need or affliction, there remains sufficient grace to meet it. He never leaves His own as orphans rather He comes to them whispering in their ears how dearly they are loved. Further, He makes our humble occupations noble by our doing them as unto Him.
True rest and peace do not belong to those who do not know Him, rather they are a unique possession of His own - those who love Him. Perfect peace is given to all whose hearts are steadfastly trusting in Him. And we rest in His perfect and pleasing promises knowing that His Words are Truth and power, and with them we stand thoroughly equipped for every good work.
Nothing can satisfy the entire being like the Lord’s love – all good things are found in Him and come from His Hand. And nothing teaches us the preciousness of the Savior as when we learn the emptiness of all besides. He is the good Shepherd, calling each of us by name. He never leaves us nor forsakes us – He is our all-sufficient portion and when we run to Him we never return empty handed.
We may go through many trials, yet never to our detriment, always for our advantage. And He has a plan for each of our lives – plans to prosper and not harm, plans to give us hope and a future. He is an amazing Savior loving His own with an undying love. We owe all to Him Who loved us and gave Himself for us. To Him be glory and honor and power and dominion both now and forever more.
Jesus replied, “If anyone loves me, he will obey my teaching. My Father will love him, and we will come to him and make our home with him. He who does not love me will not obey my teaching. These words you hear are not my own; they belong to the Father who sent me. All this I have spoken while still with you. But the Counselor, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you all things and will remind you of everything I have said to you. Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.” John 14:23-27 (NIV)