WE ARE SHEEP

In last week’s article, we considered the fact that we are to be shepherds. However, not only are we supposed to be shepherds, we are also supposed to become sheep in Christ's pasture. In order to do this, we must always be where God is, near the shepherd! A boy and his grandpa went for a walk. Grandpa said, "How far do you think we are from home?" "I don't know," the boy replied. "Well, do you know where we are?" "No." Grandpa says, "Well, it sounds like you're lost". The grandson said, "No, I'm not lost, Grandpa, I'm with you." For this boy, being with his grandfather meant the difference between being lost or not lost. He could be anywhere, but as long as he was with his grandpa, he wasn't lost. Sheep are lost - and people are lost - when God is no longer near.

We must know there are places in our world where God is not. Scripture tells us God does not dwell in the midst of darkness, in the midst of sin. Sin separates us from God.

§ If we're sleeping with someone not our spouse, we are separated from God. He is simply not in such behavior.

§ If we're into alcohol, illicit or prescription drugs, we've left His pasture.

§ If we are treating our spouse and or children disrespectfully, subjecting them to emotional, physical, sexual or mental abuse - God is not with us in this behavior.

§ If we are gathered with friends exchanging racial slurs, off-color stories, gossip, vulgar language, God is not leading us.

§ If we are living in pride and arrogance over our accomplishments, position, education, or possessions, we are separated from Him. God hates pride.

§ If we are coming to worship each Sunday but have an un-reconciled relationship with a brother, He is not with us.

Having the Lord as our Shepherd means that we must make a commitment to be where He is - near the Shepherd. We must be a people of His pasture. We must walk in the light. We've noted some places where God is not. Where can we find Him?

§ God is present wherever and whenever believers gather in His name. For where two or three are gathered together in my name, there I am with them. God is here on Sunday mornings, Sunday evening, and Wednesday evening. He is in our fellowship and visitation meetings, and our family devotionals. The question is, are we in those places? Just how committed are we to being sheep of his pasture?

§ God is present whenever and wherever we minister to others. I tell you the truth, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of mine, you did for me. Perhaps we will never be any closer to God than when we are serving others.

§ God is present whenever and wherever we live out what we believe. Psalms 41.12 says, In my integrity you uphold me... And you set me in your presence forever. David is saying that when we live out what we believe, then God sets us in His presence. James says we must not be hearers only but doers of the word… Faith without works (action) is dead. God is present when we live out what we believe.

Have we made a commitment to be the sheep and shepherds in His pasture? Have we made a commitment to be where God is? Can the image of Jesus be seen in us?

--Lamar