Lion or Lamb

Some people contrast sheep to lions, with the domineering, predatory attributes of lions being preferred. Someone said, “It’s better to be a lion for a day than a sheep all your life” and another said, “A lion doesn’t concern itself with the opinion of sheep.” Some of the scathing references to sheep are attempts to portray the folly of a nation or group of people who blindly follow leaders who are leading them in the wrong direction.

 

While this is somewhat understandable, a lot of people don’t want to think of themselves as sheep, even though God, who is good and kind, is the One who wants to be their Shepherd. Unlike government leaders who often lead people astray and do not have people’s best interests at heart, God wants the best for us.

Developing sheep-like characteristics in order to deepen our understanding of God does not mean that we put our brains in neutral. It does not mean that we are naïve or blind. What it does mean is that we find contentment in simply trusting our Shepherd. It means that we enjoy security by submitting to Him.

From the viewpoint of atheists, sure, our acquiescence to God is ridiculous. But why should we care about the opinions of people who God calls fools?

For years, I have heard people say that sheep are not intelligent animals. The reality is that, when sheep follow their Shepherd, they are not stupid. They are actually exceeding wise.

God did not liken us to lions. He likened us to sheep. There is a reason why He did this. As long as we follow Him, He will defend us. We do not have to assume the predatory attitude of a lion.

 

You can use your brain to become a surgeon, a nurse, or an engineer. You can achieve great things in life. In ministry, you can excel at music or become an exemplary teacher. You can be motivated and ambitious and still allow God to care for you and lead you. He can help you avoid the dangers and snares of this life.