Living Under the Shepherd Who Never Fails

We were reminded that Ezekiel 34 isn’t just ancient history, it’s our story. Failed shepherds, wounded sheep, a faithful God stepping in with “I Myself will…” But what does this mean when Monday hits, when the alarm goes off, when relationships strain, when church people disappoint you, or when you’re the one who feels spiritually empty?

Let me offer four everyday ways to live out Ezekiel 34 this week.

1. Slow down and see the people in front of you.
Most of us don’t wake up thinking, “How can I shepherd today?” But Ezekiel tells us God already sees you as a shepherd to someone: your spouse, children, friend, coworker, or brother or sister at church. Shepherding isn’t a title, it’s responsibility.

So ask yourself something simple each morning:

“Who is God putting in front of me today, and how can I strengthen, encourage, or pray for them?”

This might be an encouraging text, a five-minute prayer with a coworker, or simply listening instead of rushing past someone’s struggle.

2. Bring your wounds to Jesus instead of hiding them.
If Ezekiel teaches us anything, it’s that God doesn’t walk past wounded sheep. He moves toward them. Don’t assume your hurt makes you less spiritual or less useful. Bring it to Him. Tell Him where you’re afraid, disappointed, or exhausted.

Jesus hasn’t just promised to save you, He promised to shepherd you. Every wound has a corresponding “I will.”

3. Serve instead of consume.
The warning against “fat sheep” is shockingly relevant in a consumer-driven culture. We naturally ask, “Did I like the music?” or “Was that sermon helpful?”
Instead try asking:

“Who can I encourage? Whose burden can I help lift?”
Church isn’t a restaurant. It’s a flock. Someone near you needs your care more than you realize.

4. Rest under the Shepherd-King, not your own strength.
Some of us are exhausted because we’re trying to heal ourselves, fix ourselves, or be our own shepherd. Ezekiel says peace comes when He leads.

So maybe your most spiritual step this week is simply this: stop trying to be enough, and instead rest in the One who already is.
 
As we walk into this week, remember Ezekiel’s bottom line:

When every shepherd fails, God sends the Shepherd who never will.

Let’s follow Him together.