![]() Sheep need refreshing water and soul-sustaining food And they can’t be fed just anything or they’ll be malnourished. Shepherds provide for and feed their sheep (John 10:9 Jeremiah 3:15 Ezekiel 34:13–14).Don’t let their schedules determine what they prioritize, but prioritize what they need most and schedule their activities accordingly. When they kick or bite back (as sheep are prone to do), and you know what you’re doing is right and good, don’t cave in or give up. Lead them according to God’s design and in what God says is best, but lead rather than be led along. As Psalm 23 tells us, this doesn’t mean you always avoid difficulties or valleys in life, but you do them lead them along the way. Shepherds make tough decisions for the benefit of their sheep, even if the sheep don’t understand or appreciate it in the moment. And not just to make fun memories of befriend them-though we do these things-but to lead. Children are a gift to parents, but God also gifts parents to children. ![]() Parents need to feel the weight they have as a God-given authority in their child’s life. Because shepherds know and love their sheep, they’ve learned their needs and can lead. The shepherd doesn’t let the sheep run astray and do whatever they want whenever they want, but guides and guards them. The shepherd leads the sheep, not vice versa. Shepherds lead their sheep (Psalm 23:1–3 Isaiah 40:10–11).Throughout the Bible, God repeatedly communicates how loved we are as His children to assure us of His love and provide security in it. But it also includes communicating your love to them, both in words and deeds. Loving your children includes desiring what’s best for them-including wanting God’s will and purposes over your own-and laying down your comfort in ordinary moments to prioritize them. He loves them sacrificially by laying down his life for them. Jesus contrasts himself to hired hands by pointing out he cares for his sheep (John 10:11–13). The shepherd’s care makes them feel secure. Sheep do not fear their shepherd but obey their voice because they trust in their shepherd. They know when a sheep needs tenderness or firmness. Shepherds can be firm (point 6) and strong (point 5), but shepherds were gentle, kind, and loving toward their sheep. Shepherds love and care for their sheep (John 10:11–13 Isaiah 40:11 Jeremiah 23:4). ![]() Engage them through quality time and meaningful conversation. Learn about them, and in getting to know them, learn how to shepherd their heart. We must know our children personally and intimately. The sheep might look the same to an outsider, but the shepherd knows each sheep’s unique personality, quirks, strengths, and weaknesses.Īn important part of leading is knowing.
0 Comments
Leave a Reply. |
AuthorWrite something about yourself. No need to be fancy, just an overview. ArchivesCategories |