A Sheep’s Senseless Stragglings

Although not the most intelligent creature, the sheep occupied an important place in everyday life during Biblical times. Many passages mention this common animal in different contexts. David uses the sheep in Psalm 23 to picture our relationship with Christ, the Good Shepherd. Throughout this chapter one can observe the weakness of the sheep and its reliance on the shepherd. Amazingly, David’s illustration of sheep also transfers to a Christian’s life, teaching numerous lessons about a believer’s true state and God’s love.

With the sheep as an example Christians can better understand their fallen state. Constantly going off-track, sheep need direction and prodding from the shepherd to prevent them from wandering. Isaiah 53:6 says, “all we like sheep have gone astray,” comparing this same characteristic to man’s sinful condition. Foolish and undiscerning on their own, humans often stumble and fall into harmful situations which force them to cry out to the Lord for rescue. To find refuge from savage animals that may threaten them, the helpless sheep must rely on the protection of the shepherd. Just as sheep hear the shepherd’s call and follow, believers need to recognize the Lord’s prompting and respond in obedience. Because of their feebleness, followers of Christ do not have the power to face life’s battles on their own. Only the Good Shepherd can provide security and supply green pastures and still waters for their refreshment. As sheep depend on the shepherd in every aspect of life, likewise the Christian looks to Christ for sustenance.

Comparing myself with a wandering sheep opens my eyes to see my true instability. I wonder how many times the Shepherd rescues me from the wrong path. That Christ patiently continues to lift me from sin over and over again confirms his love for me. With thankfulness I realize I could never repay Him for the faithful care He gives. Stronger and wiser than my own intellect, the Lord knows every circumstance that threatens my weakness. Only He can protect me from the lurking enemy. When He calls, I must follow in submission with the conviction that He will lead me in the right way. As all of my efforts fail, I trust in Jesus who alone can satisfy every need.