Status Updates From A Shepherd Looks at the Goo...

“To follow Christ means I become intimately identified with His plans and purposes for me as a person. His work becomes my work. His words become my words. His standards, values, and priorities become mine. His interests become my interests. His life becomes my life.

In a word: He is in me; I am in Him. There is the place of peace. Here lies serenity, strength, and stability amid earth's troublous times.”

Chapter six was an improvement upon five. However, I would’ve added an 8th “ism”/deceitful voice to his list of modern “strangers” in the sheepfold: legalism.
I’m reading a copy of this book from the church library… and, as the pastor, I may just remove the “voice” of this book from my sheep’s earshot.

Bummed to read Chapter 5, rife with legalism.
:(
No distinction whatsoever of old self vs. new self. Just guilt and moralizing. A chapter like this destroys tender consciences. Scandalon.

“And so the eyes of our spiritual understanding are opened to see our Good Shepherd, relentlessly, tirelessly, eagerly calling to Himself those chosen ones who will respond to His Voice and come to His call. He brings them in from every tribe, every language, every race, every nation. His majestic voice has rung out over all the earth. In unmistakable sounds He calls out to any who will come.“

Pretty good so far.
Chapter 3 was disappointing. The “Decision Theology” and “prayer as a means of grace” heaped on more burden than comfort. Leave the means of grace alone. Don’t add prayer to it. And don’t make my faith something I have to choose or initiate. That (1) only burdens one with something they must “do,” and (2) opens the door for them to question the sincerity of their decision later.

“And the ultimate end He has in mind for me is that my will should be aligned with His; my life moving in harmony with His; together sharing in the magnificent plans and purposes He has for His people.” p. 34

~ It is ever He who holds us in His hand, if we will allow ourselves to be so owned and loved. We do not have to "hold on to Him" as so many wrongly imagine. How much better to rest in the quiet assurance of knowing His hand is upon me rather than doubting my feeble efforts to hold onto Him.

~ This is the life of serene security. This is the relationship of quiet relaxation. This is the life of rest and repose; for the person willing to be led of the Lord there is endless enjoyment in His company.

~ My part is to be sensitive to His gentle Spirit. My part is to obey instantly His smallest wish. My part is to wait quietly for the unfolding of His best purposes and plans. In harmony, unity, and mutual pleasure we commune together along the trails of life. He becomes my fondest friend and most intimate companion. More than that, He becomes my life.