RUN LIKE A CHAMPION

“And when the Chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the crown of glory that will never fade away.” (1 Peter 5:4)
Before my wife and I were married, I told her, “I can’t promise you that we will ever be rich, but I do promise you this: life won’t be boring!” That’s been abundantly true. Following Jesus has been one great adventure after another. I’d never have dreamed that I’d see the things I’ve seen or do the things I’ve done. It’s been an amazing journey.
One of the most interesting parts has been to see how good and faithful God has been in His leadership in my life. He’s brought me to countries oppressed by atheism and communism, nations riddled with war, and people under the cloud of hate-filled religion. He’s enabled me to stand in some of the largest stadiums in the world to proclaim the message of Christ, as well as share the love of God with individuals in need of a Savior. It’s been exciting — to say the least.
But He’s led me all the way. I didn’t set out with some great strategy to go to these countries and people groups. I didn’t map out a five- or ten-year plan to accomplish these things. I simply went daily to the throne of God, surrendered myself to God, and sought His leadership. He produced a strategy. He led me in the way of His victory. He opened doors I could have never opened. He acted as my shepherd.
One of the names the Bible attributes to God is shepherd. The psalmist said, “The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not be in want” (Psalm 23:1). Jesus is called the “Good Shepherd” and the “Chief Shepherd.” The name shepherd conveys the attributes of God’s love, care, and protection. Sheep are naturally dumb. They tend to stray and can easily hurt themselves. Their needs are enormous. They need daily leadership. They need daily water. They need protection. They need guidance.
We’re the sheep, and Jesus is our Chief Shepherd. He will lead us into green pastures. His plan for our lives is good. He will provide for us. When we stray, He will gently move us back onto the right path. He will take us to streams of “Living Waters” and quench the thirst of our hearts. He will protect us from all of the attacks of Satan, our archenemy.
It’s so good to know Jesus is our “Chief Shepherd.” We can have absolute confidence in His leadership. I must be honest; sometimes I feel so stupid. Sometimes in certain situations, I don’t know what I should do. I don’t always have the wisdom and understanding for many of life’s situations.
But I do have a shepherd. He’s not only a “Good Shepherd,” but He’s the “Chief Shepherd.” He’s the one who leads me by still waters — the places of peace. He’s the one who guides me into paths of righteousness for His name’s sake. He’s the one who gives me wisdom when I have none. He’s the one who protects me from the attacks of my enemies. Every morning in my time alone with Him, I’m able to hear His voice and follow His lead. It’s so good to simply be a trusting sheep — and have such a wonderful shepherd.
If you want victory in your life, allow Jesus to be the “Chief Shepherd” of your heart. He always leads into triumph.