How can church leaders emulate God's shepherding described in Ezekiel 34:31?

◄ How can leaders mirror God's shepherding? ►

Text for Today

“You are My flock, the sheep of My pasture; you are men, and I am your God, declares the Lord GOD.” (Ezekiel 34:31)

Key Truths from Ezekiel 34:31

• God identifies Himself as the Owner and Caretaker of the flock.

• His people are precious sheep, totally dependent on His provision.

• The relationship is covenantal: “I am your God,” emphasizing steadfast commitment.

Characteristics of Divine Shepherding

• Ownership – God calls the flock “My” (cf. Psalm 100:3).

• Provision – He supplies pasture, rest, and protection (Psalm 23:1–4).

• Presence – “I am your God” underscores nearness and involvement (Isaiah 40:11).

• Accountability – God contrasts His care with harsh, self-centered shepherds (Ezekiel 34:2–10).

Practical Ways Leaders Can Imitate God’s Shepherding Today

1. Recognize God’s Ownership

– Treat every believer as belonging first to Christ (Acts 20:28).

– Guard against using people to build personal platforms.

2. Provide Nourishment

– Feed the flock with clear, whole-counsel teaching of Scripture (2 Timothy 4:2).

– Avoid diluted doctrine; offer the “pure milk of the word” (1 Peter 2:2).

3. Protect from Danger

– Watch for false teaching (Titus 1:9).

– Confront wolves lovingly but firmly (John 10:12–13).

4. Pursue the Straying

– Seek the wandering sheep instead of writing them off (Luke 15:4–7).

– Restore gently, bearing burdens (Galatians 6:1–2).

5. Practice Personal Example

– Lead by modeling holiness, humility, and service (1 Peter 5:2–3).

– Serve “not under compulsion, but willingly, as God would have you.”

6. Provide Rest and Refuge

– Create an atmosphere where weary saints find encouragement (Matthew 11:28).

– Schedule rhythms of corporate worship, fellowship, and Sabbath rest.

7. Persevere with Covenant Commitment

– Shepherd for the long haul, reflecting God’s unbreakable promise, “I am your God.”

– Keep vows made at ordination or commissioning, even when ministry is hard.

Heart Check for Leaders

• Whose agenda am I advancing—Christ’s or my own?

• Do I see people primarily as souls to be served or resources to be used?

• Am I as diligent in private intercession as I am in public leadership?

Encouraging Results of Faithful Shepherding

• Flocks become spiritually healthy, discerning, and mission-minded (Ephesians 4:12–13).

• The watching world glimpses Christ’s love made visible (John 13:35).

• Faithful shepherds receive the “unfading crown of glory” when the Chief Shepherd appears (1 Peter 5:4).