The Influence of a Shepherd

Scripture:

Jeremiah 50:6 "My people have been lost sheep. Their shepherds have led them astray; They have turned them away on the mountains. They have gone from mountain to hill; they have forgotten their resting place."

Observation:

In the Old Testament, God speaks many times of shepherds leading His people astray. Here He compares His people to lost sheep and blames the shepherds for leading them astray. God always judges shepherds harshly and expects them to lead properly. He expects His shepherds to lead people the right direction and if they don't, they are in danger.

Application:

Today, there are so many shepherds who have decided to lead their people in a way that is not pleasing to God. One of the strongest impressions of this comes from a sermon Tommy Barnett preached many years ago where he preached from the flames of hell. In one scene there was a man being chased through hell by a group of people. Tommy stops them and asks what was going on and hwy they were after him. They said, He was our pastor on earth and he never told us this place even existed. Shepherds must led with truth.

Prayer:

Lord, You have entrusted many people into my hands. Help me to lead them well, feed them well and warn them well. I want every person I minister to in heaven one day. Show me how to lead better. Jesus, You are the good shepherd. Help me be a better shepherd.

Thanks,

Jeff