Devotional - September 9, 2026
Scripture: Ezekiel 34: 16 I will search for the lost and bring back the strays. I will bind up the injured and strengthen the weak, but the sleek and the strong I will destroy. I will shepherd the flock with justice.
Last week I mentioned a time when my GPS did not engage in my car. It came on later, but for a moment, I had to rely on what I knew. I had to rely on what I had learned prior to the event, by reading and recalling past experiences. The same is true in life. Sometimes, we need to rely on what we know about God through our studies and life experiences. But, if you are like me, even with all that you still lose your way. Life can deliver some difficult storms at difficult times that send us tumbling in the waves. During times like these, Ezekiel reminds us, as he reminds Israel, that the God we serve is a Saviour God who searches for us and finds us. Afterall, the name Jesus is Greek for the Hebrew name Joshua which means YHWH Saves/Savior. Jesus literally is the human embodiment of today's text. He is our Shepherd, the Good Shepherd, who ensures our safety within the flock, even when we go astray (John 10: 11-18, Matthew 18:12). When you feel lost, know that you are already found by God and rest in it (John 14:27). But also know one thing, not knowing the answers to all of life's questions is not the same as being lost. Sometimes, it is because we thought we knew the answers that we ended up where we did. Not knowing all the answers to life's questions and situations is normal. When you think about it, how can we know everything? Not to mention, some situations don't have simple answers, they are a works-in-progress, they take time to understand before we even get to the answering part. It's sad that people get all distraught because they make mistakes. I know we live in a shaming society, but if you can, ignore it. People who act in that manner are happy if folks are looking at your shortcomings and not theirs. Know that you are blessed because you know Your God is a Savior God who delights in leading you onward in life (John 10: 11-18), mistakes and all (Matthew 5:7 & 9:13). Know that your God will bring healing and strength into your life.
Pray with me..., Holy God, it is so good that we can trust in You. You will bring us through all we face in this life with justice and peace. Help us to keep our eyes on You even when we feel lost. Lord, hear us as we lift to You our loved ones. We ask Your blessing upon them. Bless them, O God, in accordance with their needs. And we ask Your blessing upon our church, so we can be the people you call us to be, in Jesus' name Amen.
God's peace,
Pastor Brian
