“The man runs away because he is a hired hand and cares nothing for the sheep.” (John 10:13)
Expanded Passage: John 10:12-15
When I first became a Christian, a man named Chuck helped shepherd me in my faith. He modeled a life of giving—to those in need, to the church, and to God. Chuck helped me think about every aspect of my life through the new lens of my faith: how I talked to classmates, how I prayed, and even how I exercised.
When I went to college, I quickly learned that Chuck wouldn’t always be around to help. In fact, as I studied more about God and my faith in college, I even started to question some of Chuck’s well-meaning instruction.
Any mentors in our lives—even those who lead us closer to God—are simply employees hired temporarily by the true shepherd, Jesus. As I grew older, I realized that Chuck, who was a godly man, was still only a man. He couldn’t be around my whole life, he couldn’t protect me from the effects of sin, and he couldn’t teach perfect theology.
Once I started college, I realized my trust was misplaced; it was placed in Chuck rather than in God.
Jesus told the Pharisees that they were relying on “hired hands,” or human leaders, who at the end of the day, no matter how they might try, would ultimately fall short of the true shepherd’s protection.
Strive to trust Christ more than your mentor.
Lindsey Priest is an Indiana Wesleyan University graduate. She likes to read to her kids, play video games with her husband, and refurbish furniture.
© 2025 Wesleyan Publishing House. Reprinted from Light from the Word. Used by permission. Scriptures taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®.
