Trust in the LORD and do good; Dwell in the land and cultivate faithfulness.
Psalm 37:3 (NASB)
I just finished reading Lessons from a Sheep Dog, a book by *W. Phillip Keller about a Border collie named Lass who shared life with him on his first sheep ranch. Woven throughout the story is the profound spiritual truth, that we, just like Lass, can be transformed into the sons and daughters of God we were created to be, if we will simply listen and obey our Master’s voice.
Because Lass had such an alert mind, she learned very quickly familiar phrases and orders such as Come—Lie Down—Sit—Fetch them—To the left—To the right—Stay. It became obvious to Phillip that just as his will and wishes for his devoted dog were expressed in clear, concise terms, so likewise God’s will for him was stated in simple, straightforward language in His Word.
Strange as it may seem, the most difficult command for Lass to comply with was Stay. Sometimes it meant that she would have to hold lambs in the corner of the field or guard a gate or keep watch over some unruly rams while Phillip was doing another job. It was very trying for Lass to have her master disappear from view. Because she was eager to be where the action was—she would sometimes be sorely tempted to “break faith” and take off on other enticing escapades.
God used this characteristic in Lass to teach Phillip about the necessity of staying quietly steadfast and faithful wherever God placed him. Can you relate? When you and I do not have a clear view of the Good Shepherd, we can be sorely tempted to “break faith” and make our next move on our own—resulting in a complete waste of energy for the Kingdom of God.
O Lord, this truth sheds supernatural light on my path. Make me alert to Your commands and give me steadfast faith to Stay when You tell me to—and remain there without breaking faith. In return for my faithfulness, love, and loyalty I humbly ask You to reveal more of Yourself in the wondrous abundance You have promised. Amen.
*W. Phillip Keller (1920-1997) is also the best-selling author of A Shepherd Looks at Psalm 23.