Shepherd and Sheep

But I pray to you, Yahweh, in the time of your favor; in your great love, O God, answer me with your sure salvation. – Psalms 69:13

In my experience as a Christian leader, I have had some very trying moments, tests of my skills and my authority to exercise them. By God's grace, I sometimes passed the test but frankly it didn't often feel like it. Successful spiritual leadership doesn't always equate with being popular. It is often necessary for shepherds to lead the sheep where they don't want to go (but need to) and well, we all "like sheep" are prone to wander.

For example, sheep, by nature, will graze over a field until it is completely barren, but a good shepherd will lead the flock to newer, fresher pasture. Some, unfortunately, just will not go. Others may stubbornly make the journey only because they fear being left behind. IN reality, it is usually a small group that will actually trust the shepherd and willingly follow.

Those who are both shepherd and sheep must (depending on the circumstances) lead and also be led. They cannot see everything that “is” or that “is coming,” but they must still follow the One who can.

Only a disciple can make a disciple. – A. W. Tozer