His Sheep (Part 2)

Bible Reading: Psalm 34:8-10

“Jamal! Wake up!”

Jamal opened one sleepy eye and glanced at the clock on the nightstand. Two o’clock in the morning! Why is Uncle Rob waking me up at this hour? he wondered, sitting up slowly.

“I need your help moving some sheep,” whispered Uncle Rob. “It’s raining so hard that the south pasture could flood. The sheep there have to be moved.” Now wide awake, Jamal jumped out of bed.

After several hours of hard work, the sheep were high and dry, and Jamal tumbled back into bed.

The next day, Jamal and Uncle Rob drove out to see how the sheep were doing in their new grazing spot. “Wow!” said Jamal when he saw the rich, green pasture. “Those sheep will never want to leave here!”

“You wouldn’t think so, would you? But . . .” Uncle Rob pointed. “See that sheep over by the fence? She’s trying to reach the plants on the other side. She’ll try to get over there even though this is a better pasture. She does that kind of thing all the time, and she teaches the lambs the same tricks. Sometimes other sheep follow her too.”

“She doesn’t know how good she’s got it!” said Jamal. “You give her everything she needs, and you’re up all hours of the night to take care of her. She should be smarter than that!”

Uncle Rob smiled. “You’re never like that, are you? You never want something more when God has already given you many good things, do you?”

Jamal remembered getting upset the week before when his mom wouldn’t let him buy a jacket he wanted. He often felt unhappy when he saw kids at school with things his family couldn’t afford.

“Sometimes I’m like that sheep myself,” Uncle Rob admitted. “We need to remember that we belong to Jesus, the Good Shepherd, who gave His life to save us. He’s always watching over us and provides everything we need. Even though we may face difficulties and disappointments in life, we’re His sheep, and He promises to take care of us no matter what happens. What more could we want?” Geri Walcott

How About You?

Are you content with what God gives you? Or do you want more toys? More clothes? Parents who are more permissive? Jesus encourages you to pray about everything. Pray about things you need and other things you’d enjoy having too. Perhaps He’ll provide some of them for you; perhaps not. Remember, the Shepherd gave His life to save you, and He knows what’s best for you. Be content in Jesus, knowing He cares for His sheep.

Today’s Key Verse:
Philippians 4:11 I have learned to be content in whatever circumstances I find myself. (CSB)

Today’s Key Thought:

Be content