This brief article was in our church bulletin on December 11. I am always a few weeks behind on reading these, but I’m always encouraged and challenged when I do -
Keith Swartley writes, “It is not our job to watch out for lions, the narrowness of the path or the depth of the ravine:
we just follow the Shepherd. And following the Shepherd is always better than we expect – even comforting, like a cool drink from a stream near a green pasture.” Following Christ “takes boldness, not just in speech, but in attempting those efforts others are not willing to undertake.”
The Shepherd may choose a path for us to travel that seems uncomfortable, frightening, even dangerous when our eyes move from Him to the surrounding terrain. Yet onward He leads, expecting us to keep our eyes on Him, trusting Him all the way. And what if that treacherous way should bring pain, suffering, injustice or even death? The Shepherd still leads, strengthening and protecting from ultimate harm, and accomplishing His Kingdom purposes in and through us for His glory. And one day as we follow, we find He leads us into an extraordinarily glorious City where we find we are finally home!
So, let our Good Shepherd lead you. Fear not as He leads the way. He’ll carry you when you cannot take another step and guard you with his sovereign, almighty hand. Don’t hesitate at the edge of deep crevasses or turn to stone at sudden movements in lion-infested jungles. Watch the Shepherd. The key to finding comfort and joyful purpose in all of life is fixing our eyes on Him. That’s our job, our privilege, our joy!
With you in following and loving our Great Shepherd,
Filed under: Appreciation, Helpful Tagged: | following Christ, God's goodness, obedience, Trust
