Sacrifice Is The Difference

"I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep. The hired hand is not the shepherd and does not own the sheep. So when he sees the wolf coming, he abandons the sheep and runs away. Then the wolf attacks the flock and scatters it. The man runs away because he is a hired hand and cares nothing for the sheep. I am the good shepherd; I know my sheep and my sheep know me— just as the Father knows me and I know the Father—and I lay down my life for the sheep. I have other sheep that are not of this sheep pen. I must bring them also. They too will listen to my voice, and there shall be one flock and one shepherd." —John 10:11-16

The difference between a good shepherd and a hired hand is an ownership mentality. The mentality of a good shepherd is selfless and personal and resultantly demonstrates courage and commitment. The hired hand, on the other hand, is overly concerned with self and resultantly responds with self-preservation.

As Jesus is proclaiming this, there is no doubt the sacrifice of the cross is at the front of his mind, the tremendous selfless act by a good shepherd done to save the lost sheep.

Remember, it is always at the moment of inevitable sacrifice that goodness and ownership are revealed. It is through trials and sacrifices that men are exposed, and their heart's motivation is revealed by required action.

DO THIS: Ask God to reveal your heart and all of its motives.

PRAY THIS: God, I know you know all things, and I know you know my heart. Reveal where my heart is selfish and help me to adjust accordingly.