I am reading a fiction novel in which one of the main characters is an 1800s sheep farmer.  While dealing with the sheep, the farmer and his ranch hands are careful to be quiet and calm, maintaining a normal routine.  Any sudden loud noises or movements could cause the sheep to become startled and thus scatter.  Once scattered, they would have to quickly re-herd all the sheep, as a lone sheep was a primary target for danger.

     As the Bible talks a lot about sheep, I got to thinking how this illustration can relate to our human behavior.  We can be quite content in the safety of the sheep herd, when suddenly something happens to shake up our world.  When trials come, some will wisely stay with the other “sheep” and continue to listen to and follow the voice of the Good Shepherd, Jesus.  These people draw strength from the body of believers, and continue to walk in obedience to the Lord, and that in itself brings safety, comfort, and peace, even in the midst of trouble.

     Then there are those who, when their world is shaken, jump and run.  They separate themselves from the safety and support of being in fellowship with other believers and from the One who will lead, guide, and protect them.  Why?  I suppose every case is different.  Perhaps the enemy brings feelings of guilt and shame; or maybe there are feelings of bitterness and blame is placed on God; or the feeling that no one else could possibly understand what they are going through.  Whatever the reason, we know the enemy loves to use the tool of isolation.  When we are off on our own, we are especially susceptible to danger and harm.  “Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour” (I Peter 5:8).  And a predator knows the easiest prey is the one that has wandered from the herd and is alone.

     Which category do you fall into?  Maybe you, like me, have reacted in both ways at different times.  Either way, I think there are lessons to be learned.  If you fall into the first category, staying safely with the sheep herd and following the Shepherd, be on the look-out for those who have “run.”  While Jesus is the Shepherd and we are the sheep, He may want to use us to go after that “lost sheep.” Seek that one out and show them the love of Jesus.  By His grace, bring them back to the fold.  If you are in the second category, if you jumped and ran when troubles came, it’s not too late to go back!  Go back to the safety of the herd.  Allow the body of Christ to minister to you in your hurt.  Receive the forgiveness, love, and healing of the Good Shepherd!  Don’t allow the enemy to isolate you so that he can devour you!

     Remember, Jesus is “the Good Shepherd.  The Good Shepherd lays down His life for the sheep……My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me.  I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish; no one can snatch them out of my hand” (John 10:11, 27-28).  Follow the One who laid down His very life for you, to give you eternal life.  He will NEVER lead you wrong.

Stacey Poplawski
WOC Graduate