Herding Sheep
Photo image courtesy Pixabay
“What do you think? If a man has a hundred sheep, and one of them goes astray, does he not leave the ninety-nine and go to the mountains to seek the one that is straying?
-- Matthew 18:12 (NKJV)
Like sheep, we tend to meander into places we shouldn’t. And these aren’t always physical locations. Visitation to the pastures of doubt and confusion are common. We can also find ourselves camped out in the valley of death. Thankfully, the Holy Spirit nudges us back where we belong. However, when we don’t heed that voice, extreme measures become necessary.
Samuel 17 explains that David protected his flock from both a lion and a bear. David didn’t merely chase the predators away. As a young boy, he literally pulled his sheep from the mouth of danger. We can become so entangled in treacherous situations that God must do the same. We eagerly accept that Christ died for our souls, but we readily discount His willingness to protect His flock on earth. The current state of our world encourages people to anticipate the worst. Even as believers, we don’t always expect the best.
However, God’s protection comes in many forms. Shepherds use herding dogs to guide sheep, watch for predators, and attack adversaries. Our Lord dispatches angels to guide and protect His flock as well. We don’t always recognize our help, but heavenly defenders abound. God’s love is unyielding. Our Father promised never to leave or forsake us.
Fear rises when we discount God's protection. The disciples who knew Jesus best feared for their lives even in His presence. Our Lord acknowledges our fears, but we are instructed to have faith. We regain peace by remembering that we are safe no matter what happens. Our faith in God’s protection should exist not only as we live but also as we face dire circumstances.
The tragedies we overcome are often for the benefit of others. Lost people will never seek God if they do not observe how He sustains His sheep through hardship. Our trials do not bear witness that we lack God’s protection. Instead, our difficulties confirm a love that transforms through adversity.
Question for Reflection:
Think about a time you were afraid. How did God protect you? Did you allow that experience to impact your faith?
