Next Mr Keller points us to a very important disturbing influence we must be freed from “the torment of parasites and insects.” (p50) These pests make it impossible for the sheep to rest, so the shepherd must come to their rescue. The author says, “As soon as there is the least evidence that they are being disturbed he must take steps to provide them with relief. Always uppermost in his mind is the aim of keeping his flock quiet, contented, and at peace.” (p51) He will speak about this again in a later chapter, but for now we can liken this to anything that “bugs” us in life. Jesus also comes to our rescue, making a way out of any frustration or annoyance. He does this by guiding us. For instance, I have been having computer glitches lately and when I get really frustrated with it all, I remember I am not alone. I turn to my Good Shepherd and he gives me insight on to work around the issues. The “pests” of life are irritating, so we must learn to go to the soothing oil of God for relief so we can rest once again.
Lastly, Mr Keller talks about how they are not able to rest when the sheep are hungry. To this he says, “A hungry, ill-fed sheep is ever on its feet, on the move, searching for another scanty mouthful of forage to try and satisfy its gnawing hunger.” (p54) He likens this to our hunger for righteousness. After we become born again, we are righteous with God, yet our outward appearance needs to catch up. The way we think, speak and act must continually be refined. Just like it is the shepherd who produces a green pasture for the sheep to feed on, it is our Good Shepherd who regularly cleanses us so our actions can match our inner state. I love how Mr Keller describes this act: “How He works to clear the life of rocks of stony unbelief. How He tries to tear out the root of bitterness. He attempts to break up the heart, proud human heart that is set like sun-dried clay. He then sows the seed of His own precious Word, which, if given half a chance to grow, will produce rich crops of contentment and peace. He waters this with the dews and rains of His own presence by the Holy Spirit. He tends and cares and cultivates the life, longing to see it become rich and green and productive.” (p55) This is what our Good Shepherd labors to do in our lives once we are His…yet sadly, too many believers never sense this Abundant Life He desires to give us. Mr Keller says, “This life of quiet overcoming, of happy repose, of rest in His presence, of confidence in His management is something few Christians ever fully enjoy. Because of our own perverseness we often prefer to feed on the barren ground of the world around us.” (pp55-56) Let us be different, my Friends. Let’s learn to lean on the Holy Spirit, more and more, so that we only, and always, feed on His green pastures of righteousness. This way we too can be freed from fear, tension, aggravations, and hunger.
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
