We Need a Shepherd

“All we like sheep have gone astray; we have turned every one to his own way”

Isaiah 53:6

Have you ever pondered why God compares us to sheep in the Bible? Is it just because they are cute and cuddly, or is there a deeper meaning? The comparison becomes clearer when Jesus identifies Himself as the Good Shepherd and us as His sheep.

After extensive research, I’ve uncovered the reasons behind the sheep metaphor in the Bible. Some are surprising and relatable, while others are even a little funny. As you explore these spiritual insights, you might find yourself rethinking aspects of your life.

First, sheep have no sense of direction–at all! Remember that question mums used to ask as kids? “If your friend jumps off a cliff, would you do it too?” Of course you wouldn’t, but sheep don’t have the same sense of self-preservation. There’s a real-life story from Eastern Turkey where about 1,500 unattended sheep fell off a cliff while their shepherds were having breakfast far away.

The first 400 sheep sadly died in the ravine, but the remaining 1,100 were saved because of the sacrifice of the first group. Here’s the key: the sheep in the back couldn’t see what was ahead, so they weren’t aware of the danger. The sheep in front couldn’t stop because they were being pushed by the ones behind. It’s like the saying ‘the blind leading the blind’! Sounds more like you and me than the sheep actually!

How often do we feel pressure to keep up with others? We see someone succeed and try to do the same thing, even if it’s not right for us. We look to people for guidance instead of God. We imitate others because they seem cool, even if their actions don’t align with God’s will. In those moments, we’re just like wandering sheep, and it’s only by God’s mercy that we’re not in a worse situation.

Don’t take God’s mercy for granted. Run to the Shepherd today.

PRAYER