In the Presence of the Shepherd

Jeremiah 31:9-11

He who scattered Israel will gather them and will watch over his flock like a shepherd. (Jer. 31:10)

SHEEP AREN'T THE SMARTEST creatures on earth. They're stubborn, helpless, and timid. They won't lie down unless they're completely free of fear. That's where the shepherd comes in. The mere presence of the shepherd is comforting for sheep. When a flock of sheep sees its shepherd, all is well and the sheep will rest. The Lord spoke to the Israelites in the same way. Jeremiah 31 finds the Israelites still in exile. But God promised to bring them back together and watch over them. They were in a different land and were trying to adjust to different customs, food, and surroundings. Life was uncertain. God used Jeremiah to deliver a message of hope and restoration. The word of the Lord, sent through Jeremiah, was comforting. It reminded the Israelites of God's presence with them. He hadn't deserted them. Where do we usually turn for comfort? As Christians, our answer should be God and His Word. But often we turn to other things, such as talking to friends or reading a magazine, to find a quick answer. There's nothing wrong with these options, but before we go to anyone or do anything, we should be looking to God and His Word for help and comfort. Then we can be free from fear and be at rest like sheep who are at peace in the presence of their shepherd.

Tami Stevenson

Next time you're seeking comfort, turn to God first instead of a friend.