Author Darlene J. Conard

Recently, I came across an interesting video of a sheep that snuck away and hid in the mountains, eager to escape the upcoming shearing.

As the days turned into weeks, he was eventually found sporting a massive, 78-pound woolly coat that completely obscured his tiny frame. The only feature that peeked through the dense fur was his long, slender nose, which poked out adorably and amusingly. While I couldn’t help but chuckle at his comical appearance, I also began to reflect on its deeper meaning. It struck me how often we, too, attempt to evade the care and guidance of the Good Shepherd as He seeks to nurture and protect us. It was a touching reminder that we might overlook the love and protection He gives in our efforts to escape.

Experiencing God’s correction can be challenging and uncomfortable, much like navigating change often brings discomfort. This process may not feel good, but it serves a greater purpose for spiritual growth and development. Just as loving parents take the time to guide and discipline their children for their well-being, our Heavenly Father cares for us deeply, seeking to lead us toward a better path. His guidance, though sometimes challenging to accept, is rooted in love and understanding what is best for us.

“For whom the Lord loveth he chasteneth, and scourgeth every son whom he receiveth. If ye endure chastening, God dealeth with you as with sons; for what son is he whom the father chasteneth not?”    Hebrews 12:6-7 KJV

As we embark on this new year, our hearts swell with eager expectancy for the remarkable blessings God has in store for us. This season signifies more than just a passage of time; it presents an excellent opportunity for extreme transformation and renewal. We must open our eyes to the fact that God is deeply committed to guiding us in shedding the old habits that weigh us down and hold us back. By courageously letting go of these past behaviors, we create space for Him to replace them with bracing new habits that create liveliness.

Embracing this journey of change invites us to a richer understanding of His divine purpose, allowing us to experience a more fulfilling and vibrant faith. With renewed hearts and minds, let us prepare ourselves for the incredible possibilities that lie ahead—those moments of joy, revelation, and spiritual awakening that await us on our journey together.

“He shall feed his flock like a shepherd: he shall gather the lambs with his arm, and carry them in his bosom, and shall gently lead those that are with young.” Isaiah 40:11 KJV

Beloved, pray for one another, and let us seek Him with all our hearts, minds, and souls.

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