Pulpit Magazine has a new post (from an old article) on pastors being shepherds. And while the article is written primarily toward pastors, there are also lessons here for all men, who are called to shepherd their wives and children.
Some points from the article:
- Shepherds are Rescuers: “A pastor does that by pointing the lost toward Jesus, the Good Shepherd who lays down His life for the sheep.”
- Shepherds are Feeders: “The pastor’s goal is not to please the sheep, but to feed them—not to tickle their ears, but to nourish their souls. He is not to offer merely light snacks of spiritual milk, but the substantial meat of biblical truth.”
- Shepherds are Leaders: “An effective pastor does not herd his sheep from the rear but leads them from the front. They see him and imitate his actions.”
- Shepherds are Protectors: “Christians need similar protection from error and those who spread it. Pastors guard their spiritual sheep from going astray and defend them against the savage wolves that would ravage them”
- Shepherds are Comforters: “A faithful pastor adjusts his counsel to fit the need of the person to whom he ministers.”
Men, how are you shepherding your wife? Your children?
Shepherding the flock of God is an enormous task, but to faithful pastors it brings the rich reward of the unfading crown of glory, which will be awarded by the Chief Shepherd Himself at His appearing (1 Peter 5:4).
