As for you, my flock, thus says the Lord God: Behold, I judge between sheep and sheep, between rams and male goats. Is it not enough for you to feed on the good pasture, that you must tread down with your feet the rest of your pasture; and to drink of clear water, that you must muddy the rest of the water with your feet? Ezekiel 34:17-18 – Initially as you step into this chapter we see the clear message of rebuke given to the “shepherds” of Israel, the civil and religious leaders of God’s people in this day. Instead of behaving as a shepherd would to his flock, loving them and caring for their needs above his own, Israel’s leaders were abusing the sheep and using them for their gain. Yet notice this chapter didn’t just address the sinful shepherds, but also the sinful sheep. It wasn’t just the leaders acting unfaithfully and hurting the people, but also the people were hurting each other. In the flock of Israel were individuals who only thought of themselves rather than the good of those around and after them. They trampled down the pasture God provided so others couldn’t get any and they muddied up the waters God provided so other sheep couldn’t have fresh water. They pushed the weaker aside so they could have their needs met first, and God was not good with that. This chapter certainly reminds those who are leaders of the high call to care for our sheep, but it also reminds the flock that they have a responsibility to for the other sheep in the flock. The flock shouldn’t just think of their needs but the needs of others. When God blesses the flock, those blessing are for the whole flock, not just the select few strong enough to push the weaker aside. I encourage you then to assess how you’ve handled your role in your “flock?” Leaders are you leading well? Those in the flock, are you caring for those in the flock with you or just caring for yourself? I love you, but Jesus loves you more – Mac – Daily DEVO 3587
Question To Ponder: Why does it matter if we share God’s blessings with the other sheep in our flock?
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