What Jesus Did! 'Laying Down His Body' — John 10:9-10

Wednesday, July 15, 2026

[Jesus continued his explanation about being the gate to the sheepfold:] "Yes, I am the gate. Those who come in through me will be saved. They will come and go freely and will find good pastures. The thief's purpose is to steal and kill and destroy. My purpose is to give them a rich and satisfying life."
— John 10:9-10 NLT

Key Thought

When a shepherd would take his sheep to open pastureland, he would sometimes place them in a small pen at night. This pen didn't have a gate. The shepherd would actually sleep in the opening to the pen. He was the sheep's protector during the night. When daylight came, he would get up and lead them to good pasture. The shepherd left the comforts of home to bring the sheep to good pasture. The shepherd slept out in the open land to offer protection and company for the sheep. Why? His desire was that the sheep be healthy, fed, and protected. The parallels to Jesus leaving heaven, laying down his life for us, and doing all he can to give us spiritual health and life are clear. O what a Savior! O what love! That's how Jesus cares for you and me.

Today's Prayer

What words, dear Father, can truly describe my appreciation for your love for me? What "thank you" is suitable for your sacrifice, Lord Jesus? I confess that some days I lose sight of your amazing love for me and your desire to give me life. I know that it is on those days that I am most vulnerable to Satan's temptations. Please forgive me and help me keep my eyes on you. I know you have come to give me a life that is rich here and knows no boundaries. Thank you! In your name. Amen.

Related Scripture Readings

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Illustration

Illustration of John 10:9-10 NLT — "Yes, I am the gate."

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About This Devotional

What Jesus Did! is a series of one-year devotional guides through each gospel, using one short scripture passage each day and following the Gospel in sequential order. Each devotional consists of a scripture passage and a reflection and a prayer which open up the day's scripture and show how it challenges you to live for Jesus.

What Jesus Did! is written by Phil Ware and is available in book form.

Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright ©1996, 2004, 2007, 2013, 2015 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.

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