Tag Archives: sheep and shepherds

Green Pastures of Prayer

Psalm 23:2 implies several things about the relationship between a sheep and his shepherd.  The expression “makes me lie down” suggests a sheep has submitted to his master.  This commitment yields an individual’s power of control over to their shepherd, acknowledging total surrender.  Like an act of faith, this decision essentially communicates that you have embraced God’s ways, a sign you have turned over a new lease on life to the Lord of heaven and earth.  In return, Jesus promises a future which contains green pastures.

Mark 1:35-39 is a real life example of Psalm 23.  Jesus models an ideal prayer life, early in the morning, in solitude, without the distractions of the world to interrupt your connection with God the Father.  Although some may claim there know exactly what they want to do and where they expect to go on a specific day, the Shepherd knows best.  While praying, the Holy Spirit showed Jesus where to go and what to do, Mark 1:38.  As a result, the disciples experienced the green pastures of prayer during their 3 years with Jesus before his death, resurrection and ascension.  The only question remaining is, can modern followers of Jesus find similar blessings?

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bFVP42h8t3Y

Although opinions vary, I believe beyond the walls of doubt exists a lush oasis, waiting for your arrival.  However, daily obstacles often keep you from day dreaming of such a place.  Nonetheless, once you wade through the stresses of life, a shepherd stands guard at a gate.  This entrance to a promised land, illuminates the truth of the Word of God.  Accessible by prayer, may you see for yourself the green pastures awaiting for God’s children.  When prayer inspires tithing, the floodgates to heaven on earth will open, Malachi 3:10-12.  Come now will the grass is still green…

by Jay Mankus

Stupid Is As Stupid Does

When a mother gives birth to a child, their baby becomes an extension of them.  Thus, in the fictional story of Forrest Gump, his mother does everything in her power to protect Forrest.  Mrs. Gump uses analogies, stories and words of wisdom to prepare Forrest for life’s trials.  Therefore, as Forrest is ridiculed in the movie for his low IQ, he responds with nuggets like “stupid is as stupid does” or “life is like a box of chocolates, you never know what you are going to get.”

During Jesus’ ministry on earth, he was a masterful story teller, using parables to clearly communicate God’s message to people.  In John 10:14-18, Jesus refers to himself as a shepherd.  This is quite astonishing since sheep as considered one of the dumbest animals on earth.  If one sheep falls off a cliff to their death, the one right behind it would meet the same fate unless their shepherd intervenes.  Forrest was right, “stupid is as stupid does!”

While every new mother initially thinks their child is perfect, the truth of the matter is everyone born is imperfect, Romans 3:9-10.  In fact, human beings often resemble lost sheep, wandering alone in a desert of isolation, separated from God, Luke 15:3-4.  However, sheep can process words, specifically the voice of their shepherd.  Likewise, a true believer is able to discern the voice of Jesus.  Although Christians can act stupidly, Romans 7:19, they have a great shepherd who can rescue them from their earthly bodies, Romans 7:24-25.  Lean on God’s mercy as you try to walk with God daily, Ephesians 2:8-10.

by Jay Mankus