April Theme Interpretation
Shepherd-sheep Interface: Embracing the All-Sufficient God-Luke 11:1-3 and Psalm 23:1
Shepherd-Sheep Interface: Seeking the Living and All-Sufficient God
Introduction:
The concept of the “shepherd-sheep interface” is rooted in the biblical metaphor of God as the Shepherd and children of God as His sheep.-Psalm 100:3
This interface represents the intimate relationship between God and those who seek Him. James 4:8 and Luke 11:1-3 serve as foundational scriptures for understanding God’s sufficiency for His sheep; God’s desire to seek men as well as understanding the pre-requisite to seek God, the mindset, attitude, and longing of a seeker.
- God’s Desire for Relationship – James 4:8a.
Draw near to God……James 4:8a
- The first notice in this Scripture is the call from God. The call to come unto God, a deep call for relationship with the Father
- God is calling on everyone who desires to come to Him-Isaiah 55:1-3
- Anyone who needs God can draw near to Him- Matt. 11:28
- Anyone who and emptiness, brethren who perceives a vacuum in their lives, anyone who feels overwhelmed, exhausted, or weighed down can come to Jesus and find rest and comfort in Him.
These scripture passages ( James 4:8 & Jeremiah 29:12-13) demonstrate God’s desire for a personal relationship with humanity. He seeks those who will draw near to Him, love Him, and serve Him.
- Responding to God’s Calling and Initiatives
In response to God’s initiative, individuals must understand the following
The Pre-requisite for seeking the Living God-James 4:8b
1. Life of Holiness-Hebrew 11:6
2. Sanctified and Purified Heart/Regenerated heart-John 3:3-5
3. Genuine faith that cast out fear and doubt- Heb.11:6
The Mindset of a Seeker:
A seeker’s mindset is characterized by:
1. Humility: Recognizing one’s limitations and dependence on God (James 4:8).
2. Awareness of spiritual poverty: Acknowledging one’s spiritual needs and emptiness (Luke 11:1-3).
3. Desire for intimacy: Longing for a deeper relationship with God (Psalm 42:1).
The Attitude of a Seeker:
A seeker’s attitude is marked by:
1. Submission: Yielding to God’s will and sovereignty (James 4:8).
2. Persistence: Continually seeking God through prayer and petition (Luke 11:1-3).
3. Hope: Trusting in God’s goodness and faithfulness (Psalm 42:1).
The Longing of a Seeker:
A seeker’s longing is expressed through:
1. Thirsting for God: Yearning for spiritual satisfaction and fulfillment (Psalm 42:1).
2. Crying out for help: Seeking God’s intervention and guidance (Genesis 32:9-12).
3. Pursuing spiritual growth: Desiring to know God more intimately and to experience spiritual transformation (Philippians 3:10).
Conclusion
Reflection Questions:*
1. What is your current mindset as a seeker of God?
2. How do you demonstrate persistence and hope in your pursuit of God?
3. What are some ways you can deepen your longing for God and experience spiritual growth?