Under the watchful care of the Good Shepherd, we can expect times of quiet rest, peace and spiritual restoration. He knows we need this, and He gives it to us when He determines we need it. Yet rest is not an end unto itself. We were made for walking, and the Shepherd instructs us to stay close to Him. This is a crucial lesson most believers have to learn the hard way. Jesus does not say, “Take me with you,” but, “Follow me.”


Unfortunately, our inclination in the discontentment of our hearts is to go where we wish. Even while calling Jesus our Lord, we presume to retain control of our lives. Choosing our own path, we are surprised when it becomes rocky, treacherous or difficult. We no longer feel His presence nearby and in fear cry out for Him to rescue us.


Jesus is never far off; our Good Shepherd is nearby. But our sin always has consequences. Some of our choices may leave us with scars which we’ll carry for a lifetime. The sooner we learn to trust Jesus, are content in Him, and follow where He leads, the better off we will be.