August 17 | John 10:7-9

“Then Jesus said to everyone, “Truly, truly I say to you that I am the sheep gate. All who came before Me are thieves and robbers, but the sheep did not listen to them. I am the gate. If anyone goes in through Me that one will be saved and that person will go in and out and find grazing.” (John 10:7–9)

Doors are a very useful invention. They give us privacy and safety. Doors protect us from the elements, dangerous people, and prying eyes. Without doors we would have to find other ways to provide these benefits for ourselves.

Jesus describes himself as your divine Door to protect you from thieves and robbers. Thieves and robbers are spiritual leaders who don’t have your safety in mind. Israel’s spiritual leaders were not keeping their people safe from wrong doctrines and ideas. In fact, they were the ones hurting people.

But Jesus came to rescue you from the dangers of life. Shepherds literally became the doors and gates to protect their flocks at night. They would put them in sheep pens made out of earth or caves. But violators could easily walk right into the openings of these pens.

Shepherds would lay across the openings, putting themselves on the line for the sheep. If any predator approached they would defend the sheep. Jesus came to defend you against Satan and all his demons. He protects you from everything that can harm your spirit and soul.

Action Step: Thank Jesus for His protection of your spirit and soul. He sacrificed Himself, putting Himself on the Cross in your place. Run to Jesus when evil threatens you.

Jesus, thank You for dying for me on the Cross. You have always been my Refuge and Fortress. You protect me from all forms of evil. They will not come near me. I bless Your name for Your care and protection over me.