John 10:10 (ESV) -- The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy. I came that they may have life and have it abundantly.

Satan is portrayed in pop culture as a man in a red suit with a pitchfork in hand. He is not very scary. In fact, he is sort of a cartoon character that serves as a nuisance or tempter. But the Bible paints a more graphic picture of Satan. He is not a harmless cartoon character. He is an enemy. The Scriptures teach that he is a deceiver and liar. Jesus refers to him as a thief. 

Our text today shows Jesus outlining what the thief comes to do. He says, “The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy.” Satan’s aim is not to be a mere inconvenience to your life. He wants to destroy your life. He seeks to steal your joy, your faith, and your hope. Satan’s aim is to kill you. Those descriptors are not light. The words showcase the intent of mass devastation. Every scheme of the devil has this end in mind. 

In contrast, Jesus comes to give life and give it in abundance. He wants to give us joy, peace, and hope. He is the Good Shepherd. He wants to provide for us. So we must go to Him. We must pursue the Good Shepherd with our lives. He alone can give us what we need. Notice that Jesus comes to give. Satan aims to take away. Jesus comes to build something in us. Satan comes to destroy things. 

In your life today, Satan will work to steal from you. If he can steal, kill, or destroy your life, faith, marriage, family, business, church, or hope, he will. He doesn’t feel bad for the collateral damage he leaves. It’s what motivates him. Seek the Lord today, and ask Jesus to give you victory over the thief.

Reflection & Journal:
- What are some ways you have witnessed Satan steal, kill, and destroy?  
- How can we guard our hearts and lives against Satan’s schemes? 
- What does Jesus offer to give? Why should we pursue the Good Shepherd today? 

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