At Amana we have been studying the names of God. In doing so we are learning about our God, but in the process we are learning much about ourselves. For example, this week we consider the name, Jehovah-Raah, The Lord My Shepherd. It is comforting to know that we have a Good Shepherd. It is a little less comforting to consider that we are sheep. Here are just some of the characteristics of sheep:
1. timid, fearful, easily panicked
2. dumb stupid, gullible
3. very vulnerable to fear, frustration, pests, hunger
4. easily influenced by a leader, by the shepherd
5. stampede easily, vulnerable to mob psychology
6. little or no means of self-defense; can only run
7. easily killed by enemies
8. the shepherd is most effective, calming influence
9. jealous, competitive for dominance
10. constantly need fresh water, fresh pasture
11. have very little discernment in choosing food or water
12. best water source is early morning dew
13. perverse, stubborn – will insist on their own way , even eating poisonous
plants or drinking dirty water
14. easily “cast” – flipped over on their back, unable to right themselves
will die of starvation if not turned over by shepherd; helpless
15. frequently look for easy places to rest
16. don’t like to be sheared, cleaned
17. too much wool can cause sheep to be easily “cast”
18. creatures of habit; get into “ruts”
19. need the most care of all livestock
20. need to be “on the move”; need a pre-determined plan, pattern of grazing
21. totally dependent of shepherd for every need
22. need “rod and staff” guidance
That does sound like us doesn’t it? It is critical that the Lord is our shepherd. Because the fact is we will find a shepherd. We need to be led. Most of the world is led by shepherds who have no love for the sheep but only a desire to sheer the sheep.
We are truly blessed to have a Good Shepherd; it is our job to make sure we follow Him. We just considered 22 reasons why we must.
Follow and be blessed.
Nick
Be the first to reply