No Longer Scattered
Today’s scripture selection: Ezekiel 31-36
Key verse: Ezekiel 34:12
The image of a shepherd watching over his flock is an understandably popular one in the scriptures.
Time and again we see it – a picture of either a good shepherd protecting the flock; or a lazy or corrupt one leaving them in harm’s way.
God told Ezekiel to reassure the people who heard him that should their earthly shepherds – those responsible for their spiritual welfare – fail them, God would step in.
“As a shepherd looks after his scattered flock when he is with them, so will I look after my sheep. I will rescue them from all the places where they were scattered on a day of clouds and darkness.”
God still keeps that promise.
Human shepherds, even those with the best of intentions, are fallible. So are all the so-called “experts” of our society – the self-help gurus; therapists of various types; religious sages; political saviors – you name it – all have “clay feet.”
That doesn’t mean don’t ever follow their advice, sometimes it’s very good.
It just means don’t make them “gods” – infallible leaders whom you follow blindly.
No, the only one in whom you should put that kind of total trust and total faith is God.
So – the next time you feel like a scattered sheep – look for the “good shepherd” – look to God. He’ll lead you safely home.
Prayer: Heavenly Father, thank you, for never leaving me to fend for myself among the wolves. Thank you for bringing me safely back to the fold, time and again. AMEN.
