Please don’t miss the wonder of God’s Providential creation in regards to sheep starting at the top of p158 of chapter 11. It is truly amazing how God has planned out all of life, to sustain even more life, the way He created these animals to do. We His sheep are supposed to do the same. Also spend some time with the real, wise and piercing questions Mr Keller suggests we ask ourselves on p159-160, because they can be life changing. I will end that chapter with this quote: “The only real, practical measure of my appreciation for the goodness and mercy of God to me is the extent to which I am, in turn, prepared to show goodness and mercy to others.” (p162) After all, this is the whole point to becoming born again, to be more and more like God. Whatever blessing He pours down upon us, we are to enjoy it, but then pass it along to whoever God places along our path. This is the Abundant Life which leaves us both fulfilled and satisfied.
Today let’s move on to the last chapter of this very powerful book. It is called “I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever.” Mr Keller states, “Here is a sheep so utterly satisfied with its lot in life, so fully contented with the care it receives, so much ‘at home’ with the shepherd that there is not a shred of desire for a change.” (p165) Can we say that about our own lives? About the situations we currently find ourselves in? About our future here, then hereafter? No? Well then, like me, you still have some growing to do. I will repeat what is quickly becoming one of my favorite verses: “But godliness with contentment is great gain.” (1Ti 6:6) This is the Christian’s goal, because this is what our Good Shepherd desires for each of His sheep to experience in this life, before moving on to the Higher Pastures. I have moments of this great state of being and crave it more than anything else in this world. And knowing that I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever? Oh how it makes this contentment so much more attainable and sustainable!
2023’s Got A Minute? Book Club
January: The First & Best Book Ever: The Bible
February: Love Is In the Air: “The 5 Love Languages: The Secret to Love That Lasts” by Gary Chapman
March: Spring Growth: “Secrets of the Vine” by Bruce Wilkinson
April: Living the Resurrected Life: “The Wonderful Spirit Filled Life” by Dr Charles Stanley
May: My Spiritual Mom: “Making Good Habits Breaking Bad Habits” by Joyce Meyer
June: Spiritual Dad: “It’s Not About Me- Rescue from the Life We Thought Would Make Us Happy” by Max Lucado
July: Financial Freedom “Complete Guide to Money” by Dave Ramsey
August: Summer’s Soul Restorer “A Shepherd Looks At Psalm 23” by W Phillip Keller
<>< Peace, Diane
