FLOCK

In the verses below, we are reminded that our Lord inspired the psalmist to call Him a shepherd. Of all the names He uses to communicate Himself to His people, this may be the most often repeated and perhaps the most cherished. I must consider it a great honor to be in His flock. John 10:27 assures me that as one of His sheep, I will hear Him, be known of Him, and follow Him. No pagan deity promises such intimacy and power to its followers.

“Thou leddest thy people like a flock by the hand of Moses and Aaron” (Psalm 77:20). David wrote, “The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want” (Psalm 23:1). The Lord Jesus said to His disciples, “Fear not, little flock; for it is your Father’s good pleasure to give you the kingdom” (Luke 12:32). Paul said to the elders of Ephesus, “Take heed therefore unto yourselves, and to all the flock, over the which the Holy Ghost hath made you overseers, to feed the church of God, which he hath purchased with his own blood” (Acts 20:28). Peter exhorted elders, “Feed the flock of God which is among you, taking the oversight thereof, not by constraint, but willingly; nor for filthy lucre, but of a ready mind; neither as being lords over God’s heritage, but being ensamples to the flock” (1 Peter 5:2–3).

GOLDEN THOUGHT : Fear not, little flock.

[Excerpt adapted from Wonderful Words by Stewart Custer (March 9 reading).]