Devotionals for the Heart: Jesus Christ seeks the lost to bring them home

Finding the Lost
A devotional by Melissa Henderson

“Suppose one of you has a hundred sheep and loses one of them. Doesn't he leave the ninety-nine in the open country and go after the lost sheep until he finds it?”

—Luke 15:4 (NIV)

I leaned against the fence and watched children enjoying the bounce house.

Our grandchildren had been invited to a young friend’s birthday party. My husband and I were also invited. As I stood and soaked in the sunshine, a small tug at the hem of my shirt made me look down. A blue-eyed, blonde-haired girl about six years old, motioned for me to look. “The balloon is lost. It’s going to the park. We need to go get it.” Her expression and voice showed her concern for finding the lost, even if it was a balloon.

“That’s okay. There are plenty of other balloons. We can’t get that one. It’s already high in the sky.” I responded. The girl looked up to the sky and then back at me. She asked if I was sure we couldn’t go get the lost balloon.

I pointed to the numerous pink, purple, blue, and yellow balloons attached to the fence, tables, and other areas. I hoped to show her that the lost balloon was not the only one available to enjoy. With a frown, this sweet young girl turned and left my side. I watched as she went to the bounce house, removed her shoes, and entered. Her smile and laughter returned when she began bouncing with the other children.

This short encounter with a young child reminded me of the parable of the lost sheep. Every sheep and every person is important to God. There are times when we may become lost and can’t find our way to God. Personal struggles, financial problems, relationship issues, employment trials, and many other situations may cause us to stray, doubt, or lose faith.

Yet, God never leaves. God knows that emotions can take charge of our thinking at times. God knows that we will fail at times. Our hope and peace are found in knowing God and His love for us. When we are lost or feel uncertain in everyday life situations, that is not the end. The Father will search for us if we stray. He will leave the 99 and seek the lost. God will find the lost in whatever situation occurs.

Do you know someone who feels lost in their faith? Perhaps you are the one searching for answers. Prayer is key to having a personal relationship with God. Acknowledging God is the way, asking for forgiveness, and praying for wisdom, discernment, and revelation can help lead the lost. There may be times of uncertainty. God has told us that there will be trouble while we are on this earth. Peace comes from knowing this earth is not our forever home.

God will cover us with peace and comfort when we go to Him and pray. Prayers will be answered according to His timing and in His way.

Yes, the balloon from the birthday party was lost in the sky. It probably popped when hitting a tree branch. But there were other balloons for the children to enjoy. Although I didn’t leave and search for the lost balloon, I’m confident that when I stray, God searches for me and brings me back to Him.

Have you lost something and asked God for help?

Let’s Pray: Dear God, thank You for the love, comfort, and peace that covers Your children. May we always remember to rest in Your promises. In Jesus' name, I pray. Amen.

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Song of Reflection #1: “Praise You in This Storm” by Casting Crowns. Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #2: “Still Waters (Psalm 23)” by Leanna Crawford. Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #3: “Miracle On Your Mind” by Sons of Sunday. Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #4: “Always On Time” (Bella Cordero) by Elevation Worship. Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #5: “Rescue” by Lauren Daigle. Listen to it here.

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Author Bio:

Award-winning author Melissa Henderson writes inspirational messages sometimes humming with humor. 

With articles, devotions, and stories in print publications and online, Melissa shares her love for God and life. Some of the inspirations for her writing come from family life.

Melissa and her husband Alan have been married for over 46 years. Their son Mike, and daughter-in-love Christine have blessed the family with two precious children: Rowan and Eden. These precious souls bring laughter, love, and many funny experiences, which can often be found in Melissa’s writing. The family motto is: It’s Always a Story with the Hendersons.

Melissa is a member of ACFW (American Christian Fiction Writers) South Carolina Lowcountry Chapter, AWSA (Advanced Writers and Speakers Association), CWFL (Christian Writers for Life), and many other organizations.

Melissa’s books for children include Licky the Lizard and Grumpy the Gator.

Melissa serves in Christian ministry as an Elder, Deacon, and Stephen Minister.

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Connect with Melissa:
Website: https://melissaghenderson.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MelissaHendersonAuthor
Twitter: https://x.com/mimionlife
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/melissahendersonauthor/
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/ahenderson312/

Devotionals for the Heart: The bond between our Shepherd (Jesus) and us

The Lord is My Shepherd
A devotional by Anne Madison

“The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters. He restoreth my soul: he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name's sake. Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me. Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies: thou anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over. Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the Lord for ever.”

—Psalm 23:1-6 (KJV)

As a shepherd, King David—the author of Psalm 23—understood the bond between a shepherd and his sheep.

He knew firsthand the devotion and sacrifice required to care for the flock. David understood his role as a guide, protector, provider, comforter, and healer. He also recognized the sheep’s tendency to wander, their fears and weaknesses, and their complete dependence on their shepherd. In light of this, it is natural to wonder how this shepherd-king came to see his relationship with the sheep as a reflection of his relationship with the Lord. A look at Psalm 22 may provide insight.

In stark contrast to the opening statement of Psalm 23, “The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want,” in Psalm 22, David penned this in Psalm 22:1-2 (NIV), “My God, my God, why have you forsaken me? Why are you so far from saving me, so far from my cries of anguish? My God, I cry out by day, but you do not answer, by night, but I find no rest.” David goes on to say in Psalm 22:13-15 (NIV), “Roaring lions that tear their prey open their mouths wide against me. I am poured out like water, and all my bones are out of joint. My heart has turned to wax; it has melted within me. My mouth is dried up like a potsherd, and my tongue sticks to the roof of my mouth; you lay me in the dust of death.”

Yet David held on to shreds of a Biblical truth in his despair. He said in Psalm 22:3-5 (NIV), “Yet you are enthroned as the Holy One; you are the one Israel praises. In you our ancestors put their trust; they trusted and you delivered them. To you they cried out and were saved; in you they trusted and were not put to shame.”

David seemed to come to a refined understanding, a peace in his relationship with the Lord, between the writing of Psalm 22 and in Psalm 23:1 (NIV) where he says, “The Lord is my shepherd, I lack nothing.” Maybe, as he cared for the sheep, God spoke to his shepherd’s heart and connected the dots. Maybe as in Jeremiah’s visit to the potter's house, David had an epiphany and heard God speak (Jeremiah 18:1-6). Whatever the case, in Psalm 23, David gets it and records it in a way that makes sense and brings comfort to all the people of God. The Lord is a good shepherd.

In his book, A Shepherd Looks at Psalm 23, W. Phillip Keller (who is a modern day shepherd) wrote, “So when the simple—though sublime—statement is made by a man or a woman that “the Lord is my shepherd,” it immediately implies a profound yet practical working relationship between a human being and his Maker. It links a lump of common clay to divine destiny—it means a mere mortal becomes the cherished object of divine diligence. This thought alone should stir my spirit, quicken my own sense of awareness, and lend enormous dignity to myself as an individual. To think that God in Christ is deeply concerned about me as a particular person immediately gives great purpose and lend enormous meaning to my short sojourn upon this planet. And the greater, the wider, the more majestic my concept is of the Christ—the more vital will be my relationship to Him. Obviously, David, in this Psalm, is speaking not as the shepherd, though he was one, but as a sheep, one of the flock. He spoke with a strong sense of pride and devotion and admiration. It was as though he literally boasted aloud, “Look at who my shepherd is—my owner—my manager!” The Lord is!”

We, like sheep, need guidance. We are vulnerable when we roam without direction. “All of us like sheep have gone astray; we have turned, every one, to his own way; and the Lord has laid on him the iniquity of us all” (Isaiah 53:6 NKJV). We are fully, wholly, and completely dependent on the loving kindness and care of our Good Shepherd.

The Lord is my Shepherd. I am a sheep of his flock. He provides so that I shall not want. He protects. His rod and staff calm all fear, for I am safe in his refuge. He supplies water for my thirsty soul, leading me beside still waters. He knows me, calls me by name, and declares, “I am the good shepherd; I know my sheep and my sheep know me” (John 10:14 NIV). His promise to be with me in the dark valley comforts my weary heart. He restores my soul. His goodness and mercy follow and watch over me all the days of my life. His promise is secure: I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever.

Let’s Pray:

Gentle Shepherd,

Your loving kindness is better than life. Daily, You provide all that I need: food, water, rest, safety. You watch over and protect me from the fowler’s snare and enemies who seek to do me harm. Good Shepherd, lead me in all wisdom and truth. Guide me on this path of life, both here and in eternity. How great it is that You know me and call me by name. Tune my heart to hear and follow your voice, silencing the noise of all others. Stay ever present in my life. Restore my soul when life’s sorrows break my tender heart. Renew a right spirit within me as I walk beside the still waters with You. In, with, and present with You is where I always want to be. Shepherd of my heart, shepherd me. In Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen.

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Song of Reflection #1: “Psalm 23” by Phil Wickham ft. Tiffany Hudson. Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #2: “Psalm 23 (I Am Not Alone)” by People & Songs ft. Josh Sherman. Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #3: “Shepherd of Love” by The N Crew. Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #4: “All We Like Sheep” by Don Moen. Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #5: “Who Am I” by Casting Crowns. Listen to it here.

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Author Bio:

Anne Madison is a devotional writer whose words gently guide women toward a deeper connection with God through personal reflection, scripture, and everyday experiences. 

Based in Iron River, Wisconsin, Anne is continually inspired by the natural beauty around her and the strong sense of community she calls home.

A dedicated journaler for over 46 years, Anne draws from a rich well of spiritual practice and daily life to craft devotionals that are heartfelt, relatable, and deeply rooted in faith. Her writing speaks to women seeking encouragement, stillness, and spiritual renewal amid the busyness of life.

Anne has a unique gift for noticing God in the ordinary. Whether it's a cup of morning coffee, a walk through the woods, or a quiet conversation with a friend, she uncovers sacred messages that reveal God’s goodness and the blessings hidden in everyday moments.

In addition to her writing, Anne is pursuing her certification as a Life Coach through the Life Mentoring School, further deepening her calling to encourage and uplift others.

She finds joy in simple pleasures—quilting, reading, and spending time with her beloved family and friends.

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Connect with Anne:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lessonsinthejourney    
Email: lessonsinthejourney@gmail.com  

Devotionals for the Heart: God as the Good Shepherd who holds you close

Gathered by God
A devotional by Kerry Teravskis

“He shall feed his flock like a shepherd: he shall gather the lambs with his arm, and carry them in his bosom, and shall gently lead those that are with young.”

—Isaiah 40:11 (KJV)

Newborn lambs are precious.

We’ve had a few on our farm over the years and they have a way of stealing your heart from the start. Lambs grow quickly and are adult size in no time. However, each lamb still needs attention from its mother and shepherd for many months filled with food, care, direction, shelter and love.

Lambs usually stay close to their mothers, but the proverbial green grass does beckon at times. Curiosity also sets in, especially for these playful youngsters. Isaiah 40:11 says God will gather the scattered lambs—some that are close to the Shepherd (Jesus Christ) and others that are in a nearby pasture. But the point is they will be gathered by Him.

God does not delegate the gathering; He does it Himself. Our loving Heavenly Father is walking through the pasture, looking for His lambs and collecting these sheep unto His presence.

Sheep hear the Shepherd’s voice and they follow (John 10:3-5). Our sheep—Palestina, Salome, and Shalom—usually come to us when we call. Notice I didn’t say, come running. You have probably heard sheep are stubborn, but they can also be naughty. They love to tarry, do their own thing and wander. But Jesus, the Good Shepherd, gathers His lambs in His arms. He scoops up the wooly animals and places them close to His bosom.

According to Strong’s Concordance, ‘bosom’ is an old word and in Hebrew it means “hollow, to enclose, midst”. Picture the hollow of Christ’s chest—an unique spot reserved for His precious ones. The Shepherd places His gathered lambs close into His chest for they are held close to His heart. A shelter. A tender, intimate place.

What’s so unique about it?

Let’s read what Deuteronomy 33:12 KJV says: “The beloved of the LORD shall dwell in safety by him; and the Lord shall cover him all the day long, and he shall dwell between his shoulders.”

Dwelling between the shoulders of the Lord is a safe haven for a child of God. He or she feels His heartbeat. They feel His warm skin touching theirs. God’s voice softly sings over His child. They feel His hair brush against their cheek. The scent of Heaven tickles their nose. They feel secure in His strong yet warm and tender embrace. A child of God does not want to leave this place because it is safe, secure, and filled with love.

Beloved, can you picture yourself in Christ’s arms, receiving His love for you? Do you hear His voice whispering a love song to you? Does this promise envelop you with hope as you are reminded of His love for you? Do you know that He wants to gather you to Himself?

Will you allow yourself to remember that you are God’s beloved, His little lamb, His chosen one? 

Will you thank God for this promised gathering?

Let’s Pray: Oh, loving Shepherd and Heavenly Father. You are incredible. You gather Your sheep close to Your heart. You enclose them in Your love. You whisper, “It is well.” I thank You for enclosing me in Your bosom, protecting me and keeping me close. Please continue to draw near to me and keep me. In Jesus’s Name I pray. Amen.

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Note from Alexis: Kerry’s devotional message today reminds me of the song “Reckless Love” by Cory Asbury. Listen to it here.

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Author Bio:

As a wife and Marmee to 3 adult children and one brand new daughter-in-love, my life is very full.

My husband and I met in college and served in the mission field for a few years before settling down back in the States to raise our family.

We were a homeschooling family for 20 years and enjoyed it immensely. For the last 22 years we have lived on a small farm in Northern California where we have raised many farm animals, along with growing and preserving our own food as well. Our farm has been a great source of enjoyment and a place to host many family gatherings, and we have an open door for dear friends, old and new.

Following and serving Jesus is an integral part of my life as well as that of my family. Whether it’s singing in our church choir, teaching children or leading and lecturing at a women’s Bible study, I love to demonstrate my love for Jesus by giving to Him in service.

I’ve been a blogger for seven years, a Bible study writer for a year and have spent this last year writing devotionals about finding God’s Sovereignty in our pain and suffering.

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Connect with Kerry:
Blog: https://www.sovereignblog.com/home
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kerry.teravskis/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sovereignblog/
https://www.instagram.com/ksteravskis/