People often think the greatest impact occurs in large congregations where multitudes listen to a sermon on Sunday morning. Multiplication of God’s kingdom occurs in small ways. Teaching our children, discipling a few and trusting God for the increase. Certain character qualities ensure success. Ps. 78 explains how you can effectively shepherd God’s people.
Listen to God’s instruction told by your fathers when He revealed His praise, strength and wondrous works done to the next generation. He commanded fathers to teach God’s law to their children so it can be passed on to their children. Instead of a rebellious heart and unfaithful spirit, they would put their confidence in God to keep His commandments and not forget His work (Ps. 78:1-8). Disciple your children so they can teach the next generation.
Ephraim was equipped with bows but deserted in the day of battle by not walking in God’s law and forgetting His miracles like parting of the Red Sea. He led them with the cloud by day, fire by night and split rocks to provide water while in the wilderness (Ps. 78:9-16). Follow God’s leading and don’t desert Him in the day of battle.
They continued rebelling against the Most High by putting God to the test in their heart. They asked for food according to their desire and questioned whether God would provide food and water in the wilderness. They did not believe in His wonderful works and trust in His salvation even though He opened the doors of heaven and rained down manna to eat. Their days ended in futility and years in sudden terror (Ps. 78:17-33). Guard your heart so you trust in, and not question, God’s provision.
The Israelites returned and searched diligently for God when he killed some of them. He forgave their iniquity even though they deceived Him with their mouths and lied with their tongues. They grieved God by tempting Him and forgetting His power during the day of redemption from their adversary in Egypt. He sent plagues, smote all the first-born, led His people like sheep and guided them safely in the wilderness like a flock until the sea destroyed their enemies (Ps. 78:34-53). Control your tongue so you may submit to God’s leadership and not lie.
God drove out the nations before them and gave the land as an inheritance to specific tribes of Israel. The Israelites provoked God with their high places and graven images so He killed His people. Young men were destroyed by fire, virgins missed out on marriage, priests fell by the sword and widows couldn’t weep (Ps. 78:54-64). Don’t worship idols so you can receive an inheritance from God.
The Lord drove His adversaries backward into eternal reproach. He chose Judah and David His servant to shepherd His people and Israel His inheritance. David shepherded them according to the integrity of his heart and guided them with his skillful hands (Ps. 78:65-72). Shepherd others with insight, wisdom, skill and integrity of heart.
The following explain how to effectively shepherd and teach God’s people:
1. Follow God’s leading
2. Trust God’s provision
3. Control your tongue
4. Don’t worship idols
Ask God to equip you in each of these areas.
