Shepherd and Sheep Series-Wandering Sheep Can Munch Their Way into Danger

Someone wisely said “even the Lone Ranger had Tonto." We need each other in the body of Christ. Every believer should become an active part of a Bible believing Church family. Sheep that become independent soon stray away from the safety of the shepherd and the flock. They are actually drawn away by their by their own appetites as they go from one clump of grass to another. Thus, they expose themselves to a multitude of dangers. The sheep’s thick coat of wool can easily be caught in the underbrush of thickets, causing the sheep to be held captive until it dies. A lone sheep is also an open invitation to one of its many predators. Without the protection of the shepherd, a wolf, a lion, or a bear would quickly kill and devour the sheep. Further dangers for sheep involve falling into crevices, picking up parasites, eating poisonous plants, or casting. A wise shepherd is aware of all of these dangers. Therefore, if he sees that one of his sheep is persistent in going its own way, he will resort to administering the pain of discipline. He will lovingly break one of its legs and then nurse the sheep back to health. This close association between shepherd and sheep establishes a special bond which continues after the leg is healed. It was this picture that David had in mind when he wrote the words; “Make me to hear joy and gladness; that the bones which thou hast broken may rejoice” (Psalm 51:8). It is during times of such discipline that meditation becomes especially cherished and valuable to the Christian. Meditation is a communing with God in the language of His own written Word. "My hands also will I lift up unto thy commandments, which I have loved; and I will meditate in thy statutes" (Psalm 119:48). Meditation is "talking to the King in the King's own words." “I have gone astray like a lost sheep; seek thy servant; for I do not forget thy commandments” (Psalm 119:176). Dr. Ken Copley is available for counseling, conferences, and local church meetings.