A FARMER, told me the following incident, which I think helps to illustrate how to be useful to others. It also gives us the secret of true happiness for the children of God. This is a story for the children of God. If we are not His children, that is the first thing we need. We cannot be Christ’s servants till we ourselves are saved, as it is written
A snowstorm had come on, and the snow gathered in a drift over the gate of a field where the farmer had his sheep. He wanted to get them home to his barn, to feed and shelter them there. So first tramping a path through the drift for the sheep to get out, he next tried to drive them through it, but the sheep were frightened. He could get them up close to the snow, then they would run back again to where they had been before. My friend, the farmer, who knew the Lord, was one of the Lord’s sheep and knew His tender care, said to himself, “I will lead them.” Down he went among them, talking and petting them. One that was a great pet and showed most affection, he singled out to take the lead. Calling it by its name, he got it to follow him up to the snow-bank, then with encouraging words and kindnesses he entered the snowy path, his pet sheep close at his heels, and in a line behind it, the rest came trooping along, and were soon feeding in the nice snug shelter, safe and warm.
Now read John 12:2020And there were certain Greeks among them that came up to worship at the feast: (John 12:20). “If any man serve Me, let him follow Me; and where I am, there shall also My servant be; if any man serve Me, him will My Father honor.’’
You see how the Lord wants our service, but our company is needed, too. Did you ever think, the Lord wants your company? Well, it is true, and if we are walking in communion with Him, you may be sure we will both be happy and useful, without our trying to be anything before others. How was the sheep helping others? By going with the shepherd itself.
See how that lad in John 6:99There is a lad here, which hath five barley loaves, and two small fishes: but what are they among so many? (John 6:9) was able to help thousands. It just looks as if he had come to spend all day with Jesus, and his barley loaves fed thousands. He put all into Jesus hands and the blessed Lord did the rest. Do you say, I know My Saviour and would like to serve Him? Well, dear children, just remember He is with you all day. And you are not poor orphans, for, John 14:1818I will not leave you comfortless: I will come to you. (John 14:18), “I will not leave you orphans: I will come to you,” means that the Lord is with us now. Just keep close to Him, He will help you, and without your knowing it, other sheep and lambs of Christ will be led nearer to their shepherd, to walk in His paths.
When we were sinners, we were lost and helpless, and Christ had to be our Saviour and Lord. Now that we are saved, we need Him for strength and grace every day.
F.
ML 01/28/1900