“…Therefore the people wander like sheep; they are afflicted for lack of a shepherd” (Zechariah 10:2b ESV).
Zechariah, writing to the post-exilic community of Judah, addressed a people who had returned from exile but were still spiritually disoriented. Though back in the land, they were vulnerable, restless, and afflicted. The prophet explained the root cause of their condition: they lacked true shepherds. Instead of faithful leadership grounded in the word of the LORD, the people were being influenced by idolatry and diviners with false dreams. These counterfeit guides offered empty comfort and deceptive direction. As a result, the people wandered like sheep, scattered, exposed, and suffering, because no one was rightly leading them according to God’s truth.
This imagery echoed a recurring biblical theme: sheep without a shepherd are always in danger. The Old Testament often portrayed Israel’s leaders as shepherds who didn’t care for the sheep. Zechariah’s words not only diagnosed Israel’s past and present condition but also anticipated God’s future solution, a Good Shepherd who would gather, guide, and protect His flock.
We can recognize our need for a true and good shepherd. When we listen to false voices—whether cultural norms or our own misguided thoughts —we too drift without direction. Like sheep, we wander without direction. Our affliction often reveals our lack of submission to godly shepherding.
Yet we rejoice that God did not leave His people shepherdless. Jesus looked upon the crowds and “had compassion for them, because they were harassed and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd” (Matt. 9:36). He declared, “I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep” (John 10:11). In Christ, God Himself stepped into our situation and became our Shepherd.
Therefore, let us commit ourselves anew to follow His voice, trust His leading, and rest in His care. We can learn that true freedom and peace are found not in wandering freely, but in following close behind our Good Shepherd, Jesus.
PRAYER: Dear Father, we confess that we are prone to wander. Thank You for sending Jesus, the Good Shepherd, who sought us, saved us, and now leads us. Help us to recognize His voice, follow Him faithfully, and rest securely in His care. Keep us and guide us by Your Spirit each day. In Jesus’ name, amen.