The Shepard by Floriana Barbu
I am the good shepherd: the good shepherd giveth his life for the sheep.
(John 10:11)
We, as God's sheep, are sometimes led by Him into the valley of darkness, where there is fear, danger, uncertainty, and the unexpected. He knows that the only way we can reach the higher places of Christain experience and maturity is not on the playground of prosperity but in the schoolroom of suffering. Along those dark, narrow, pinching, uncomfortable valleys of difficulty we learn volumes! We keep our courage simply because our Shepherd is leading the way.
Perhaps that is what the writer had in mind when he exhorted us to keep:
"looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith, who for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. For consider Him who endured such hostility from sinners against Himself, lest you become weary and discouraged in your souls."
(Heb 12:2-3)
Source: Wisdom for the Way by Charles R. Swindoll
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For any one with struggles this coming week, LOOK UP and you will find that God is watching over you, no matter where you are.
Have a God filled week dear friends.
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THIS is a good word Jo! Love the picture also. 'The schoolroom of suffering'... these are the valleys and the deserts, and they are so vital to our growth in Christ. They are never fun though are they?! To be treasured none the less...
ReplyDeleteHave a beautiful Sunday...
What an encouraging post-and such a lovely picture. Those mountains are amazing!
ReplyDeleteI just recently used that scripture to encourage a sister in Christ. I love that verse!
Have a blessed weekend!
Hi Jo - this is a beautiful post and such a blessing to me right now. My heart is hurting right now - there is some sadness in my life - I have a friend who is very ill. Thank you for this special blessing~~~
ReplyDeleteVicki
Jo,
ReplyDeleteThank you for sharing these encouraging words. They are also a stern reminder to us all that when troubles befall us, we need to look towards our Savior for help and comfort.
Blessings to you.
-Lady Rose
Vicki - I am so sad to hear about your friend, Just remember that our Shepherd is there with you and you must lean on Him. God will give you comfort. In my prayers.
ReplyDeleteJo: Lovely picture; lovely post. You do find some wonderful artists!I am always amazed by the people who choose to walk the dark valleys without the Saviour. It must be so hard!
ReplyDeletePS: I do realise it is a photograph. I browsed through her whole portfolio. Lovely work.
ReplyDelete