Jeremiah 3:15 (NIV), “Then I will give you shepherds after My own heart, who will lead you with knowledge and understanding.”

There are various reasons an ewe will reject her lamb. Whatever the reason, an abandoned lamb is susceptible to danger and disease. If the shepherd does not intervene, the lamb can easily die. So, what does the shepherd do? More often than not, he takes the rejected lamb to his home where it is hand reared. Special care is taken to keep the lamb warm, fed and carefully nurtured. It’s not unusual to see a shepherd hold a young lamb close to his chest so it can hear and feel his heartbeat. The lamb is bottle-fed at regular intervals, until it is time to be weaned. Once it’s strong enough, the lamb is reunited with the rest of the flock, free to roam the pastures under the shepherd’s watchful care. There have been tales of how when the shepherd calls for the flock, the first to respond, and with great enthusiasm, are the ones who had been rescued by the shepherd. Having been intimately familiar with his voice and touch, they have a well-developed sensitivity to immediately recognize him, and a trust to come when he calls. One author wrote, “It is not that the rescued sheep is loved more; it just intimately knows the one who loves it.” Today, I pray that you would receive a revelation of how deeply you are loved by your Great Shepherd. The Word tells of how He willingly gave Himself as ransom for you. He has devoted His life to carefully lead you, through His indwelling Holy Spirit.  He has sealed you as His own, and will constantly, patiently teach you His ways that are always right and true, as you meditate and study His Word with Him. As you take the time to quiet yourself to hear His voice - you will recognize it.  Then follow Him as He leads you to green pastures and still waters (Psalm 23). Where you will be fully satisfied and lack no good thing!