“All We Like Sheep. . .” - Sandra Fischer
God compares people to sheep many times in the Bible. Why? Because some of their characteristics are apparent in humans. God reveals how sheep need a caretaker and why people need one, too—the Good Shepherd, the Chief Shepherd—Jesus.
Sheep are nearsighted and tend to wander, much like when we lose focus on Jesus and make unhealthy and bad choices. Isaiah writes, “All we like sheep have gone astray; each of us has turned to our own way. . .” (Isaiah 53:6a NIV)
Sheep are not beasts of burden, nor are we designed to be, but we tend to carry grudges and worries God wants us to give to Him. Peter tells us, “Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.” (1 Peter 5:7 NIV)
Unlike some animals, sheep are defenseless, having no means of protection from predators. If they fall on their backs, they cannot right themselves and can die without help. We are helpless in saving ourselves from the penalty of sin, but God offers us the gift of eternal life. “. . . God shows his love for us in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” (Romans 5:8 ESV)
Sheep follow the voice of whoever is leading them. If we follow Jesus, he will lead us in paths of righteousness. He says, “My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me. I give them eternal life, and they will never perish. . .” (John 10:27-28a ESV)
Sheep are valuable. God created them to provide milk, meat, parchment, and fleece. And, he adopted us through Christ to serve. “For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them.” (Ephesians 2:10 ESV)
Thank you, Jesus, that we like sheep are in Your sheepfold.
Sandra is a FaithWriters Platinum member, author of “Seasons in the Garden.” Contact