WHO WILL BE YOUR LEADER TODAY?

We could choose from an endless list of leaders to follow. Our spouse, nature, a certain philosophy—the list is endless. But Jesus is the only Leader who provides us with love, peace, safety, healing, sustenance—His list is endless. Who will be your leader today and every day?

Eternal Perspectives               by Sally Bair

Follow the leader

Every time we stopped for a break on our way home from Alaska, my grandson led our new, just-weaned, Malamute pups, out for a run. They followed him every time. He led them away from possible danger, he waited for them when they lingered yet encouraged them to keep up the pace, and he showered them with attention.

The pups trusted my grandson. They followed along in total confidence, usually keeping up. And they relished his special care.

My grandson leading the pups reminds me of Jesus leading us, His sheep, down the trail of life. The 23^rd Psalm offers us a perfect picture of Jesus, the Good Shepherd.

“The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want.” This tells us of God’s close relationship with us and His willingness to supply all our needs.

“He makes me to lie down in green pastures; He leads me beside the still waters.” Rest comes when we feel secure in Him and allow Him to lead us away from the streams of anxiety and fear.

“He restores my soul; He leads me in the paths of righteousness for His name’s sake.” God’s quiet voice and gentle touch give us soul-refreshment. In fact, His loving actions proceed from His nature.

“Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil; for You are with me; Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me.” Distress of any kind may make us think about our own mortality. We are blessed, knowing our Lord will protect us and lead us through our difficult valleys. We need not fear death’s power when we are in a right relationship with Him. And the rod and staff, once used to help rescue and guide a shepherd’s sheep, will bring necessary discipline—with comfort—in the form of His Spirit and Word.

“You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies; You anoint my head with oil; my cup runs over.” God’s provision is as luxurious as a banquet table! As His honored guests, we are anointed with the oil of His Spirit—not sparingly, but abundantly—for health and healing of spirit, mind, and body.

“Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life; and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever.” Daily blessings and security are ours not only today but forever. Hallelujah!

Thank You, Lord, for being our Good Shepherd. Cause us to follow You, as the pups followed my grandson and as the disciples followed Jesus, with total trust and love. In Jesus’ name, amen.