DAY – 21
JEHOVAH RAAH OR JEHOVAH ROHI
The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. Ps 23:1
A shepherd, also known as a sheepherder, is someone who cares for, herds, feeds, or protects flocks of sheep. He is always gentle and protective of his flock. Typically, the shepherd will be seen with a long staff in his hand, guiding the cattle safely. And no matter how many sheep there are in his flock, every single one of them recognizes his voice.
The God of Israel is mentioned in the Bible. Jehovah is commonly referred to as the "Shepherd of Israel." Like a shepherd, he looks after his flock and ensures their safety. From the time of slavery in Egypt to the time of inheriting the promised land, God, like a shepherd, safely tends his flock. He also sent watchmen to Israel to guide and correct them on the right path. In the New Testament, Lord Jesus also says, "I am the good shepherd." In this sermon, we will look at God's characteristics as a good shepherd.
1. A shepherd who sacrifices his life for the sake of his sheep.
The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep. John 10:11
A good shepherd puts his life in danger for the sake of his sheep. In his father's household, King David worked as a shepherd. He was tasked with transporting the sheep to the pasture land and caring for them while they grazed. While tending to the sheep, the young David came across a lion who was attempting to harm the sheep. Despite his youth, David charged the terrifying lion and killed it by opening its jaw. When a bear came to attack David's sheep the next time, he attacked the bear ferociously and saved the sheep that had been entrusted to him. He was not afraid to put his life in danger to save the sheep. God rewarded him for this quality by appointing David as a shepherd to rule over Israel. Similarly, Jesus gave his life for his flock, which was his people. He willingly accepted the cross to save his people from the roaring lion of Satan. Shepherd's love for his people was on display at the cross.
When the enemy attacks us, God, the Shepherd of our Soul, immediately descends to rescue us. We're safe because he keeps an eye on us every day.
2. Shepherd leads the flock in a green pasture.
You are my sheep, the sheep of my pasture, and I am your God, declares the Sovereign Lord.’” Eze 34:31
The Sheepherder makes it a point to take his flock to a location where there is plenty of food for them. He ensures that everyone gets enough to eat and drink. Similarly, God leads us to the pasture land to satisfy us abundantly. God promised Abraham and his descendants the land of milk and honey when he spoke to him. The location of the children of Israel's abundant prosperity and goodness. When they were hungry and thirsty in the wilderness, God satisfied them with mountain waters, quail, and manna. Whenever they grumbled, God heard their cries and sent abundant food to satisfy them.
In the same way, he will lead us to the goodness that we seek. He will make certain that we are pleased with his goodness. You will not be yearning or hungry for the blessings that await you. His hand will guide you and ensure that you have enough.
3. Shepherd that goes out for the lost.
I have strayed like a lost sheep. Seek your servant, for I have not forgotten your commands. Ps 119:176
Lord Jesus came to the world in search of the lost ones. Those who turned away from his light became engulfed in darkness. In the parable, he described a shepherd with 100 sheep who was grazing on a particular day. The shepherd who was keeping an eye on them noticed that one of the sheep had gone missing. He put the remaining 99 cattle in the cattle place and went in search of the missing one, shocked to find it nowhere after searching. He traveled many roads, crossed mountains, and eventually discovered it bleeding in thorn bushes. When he saw the sheep, he immediately freed it from the thorns, carried it in his bosom, treated its bruises, and returned it safely with the others. He is not satisfied with the 99 safe sheep and will go after the lost until he finds them.
There may be many righteous people on earth, but God, while pleased with the righteous, came to the aid of the lost ones. We are found because he found us. He is indeed the good shepherd and we are his cattle.
He will carry you in his bosom through all of your highs and lows, and you will be safe.
Amen...