According to Jesus, there are three types of people in your life: thieves, hired hands, and shepherds.

Thieves are people who only want something from you. You are the means to get money, fame, or fulfillment of a desire. Some thieves know exactly what they are doing, while other thieves might not understand the way they hurt you.

Hired hands are people who help you but only because there is something in it for them. They are not necessarily bad people. They just have limits. They can help up to a certain extent, but when it gets too costly, they withdraw.

And then there are shepherds. A shepherd invests in your life in a way that the return stays with you. This kind of person will often smell like your house because of the time they spend with you. Though they are often a person of higher standing, they leverage their resources for your sake.

Jesus taught about these kinds of people so you would be able to recognize them in your life. But then he took it one step farther. As great as it is to have shepherds, this is how Jesus referred to himself: “I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep” (John 10:11).

When you find your relationships lacking, remember there is one Good Shepherd who has given you all you need. Follow his voice, and invite others to join you too.