Will you follow the flock or listen to the Shepherd

My morning devotion had an interesting story from a small town in Turkey. It described one sheep from a huge flock suddenly running away and jumping off a cliff. What followed were 1500 more sheep jumping off that same cliff, with a good number jumping to their deaths. It reminded me of that famous parental question we have all heard as we tried to convince our parents they should let us do something because everyone else was going to do it. "Well if all your friends were jumping off a bridge would you do that?" I got a nice morning chuckle out of this.

But in all seriousness, this is where our society seems to be moving with many more people (and dare I say parents) following secular trends and moving away from what is important. Just look at the rec fields on Sunday mornings. Look at how television has changed over the years, gradually slipping in more and more risque content that when I was a kid was unheard. Thankfully, you still can't say any of the 7 words George Carlin made famous in 1972 (unless of course your on a live awards show with someone incompetent on the delay switch). But are we far from hearing those words?

God's Word in the Bible is clear on what is right and wrong. We need to make sure our kids are hearing this message, but not just in church. Children need these lessons at home, not just by your words, but also by your actions. Teach them to pray for guidance as they grow and mature. Teach them to lift their troubles, concerns and questions to God.

So will you look to the flock or to the Shepherd for guidance? It is a very important question to contemplate. As Christians we must keep our faith and continually ask for guidance from the right source.

Take a few minutes today, sit down and read Psalm 23. What an encouraging passage. As the world changes around us, let us keep our focus on the solid foundation of Jesus Christ. He died for you and me. Who else do you know that would do that for you?

"I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep." John 10:11

My God Bless your Wednesday.

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