I used to think of this in very general terms -- just an analogy to help us understand that He gently guides us through the pastures and valleys of life. Lately, however, I've come to realize that there are quite a few sheepish characteristics that can also be found in us. When I began looking into them, it helped to open my eyes and greater understand this "Shepherd" relationship we have with Him.
Sheep are helpless when they fall on their backs. They cannot get up on their own, and they cannot help each other get up. They are absolutely dependant upon their shepherd to find them in their distress and bring them to their feet again.
Sheep were not meant to carry burdens. Their fragile backs will break when loaded with heavy objects.
Sheep don't drink like they should when left to themselves. They will become dehydrated although there is plenty of water available and in sight. Shepherds sometimes have to move the sheep's face to the water to remind it to drink.
Do you see the similarities? Like sheep, we need Him completely -- not just for assistance, but to literally pick us up, and set us right again. We cannot function when burdened with cares and worries, and like a good shepherd, He doesn't lay those things on our backs. We can be free when we turn to Him with our anxiety. And like sheep, we forget to drink when we need to. We get so distracted. We feel so self-sufficient. How wonderful it is that He knows when we're thirsty even when we don't, and that He will not only lead us to Living Water, but touch it to our lips.
What a good Shepherd we have.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IzPxQ4WFYOY&feature=related
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