We are all followers by nature.
God designed us this way so we would follow Him.
And it’s why the Bible sometimes compares people to sheep–like in the 23rd Psalm.
This comparison isn’t negative…
It speaks to a healthy dependence and trust in our Maker.
But we also call people sheep in today’s culture.
And this tends to be derogatory, especially if the word ‘sheeple’ is used.
To call someone a sheep–or sheeple–suggests they blindly follow authority, popular opinion, or societal trends without thinking for themselves.
This may seem harsh, but it highlights a real danger we all face when we follow without discernment.
Today, there are many ways we’re vulnerable to simply following the crowd.
Consider the influence of:
– Social media, shaping opinions and trends
– Political polarization and group think
– Misinformation, fake news, and propaganda
– Celebrity worship, conformity, and consumerism
These forces are woven into the world around us.
And because we are followers by nature…
We’re at risk of conforming to leaders or trends with uncritical obedience.
When that happens, we open ourselves up to being manipulated and led astray.
The only way to avoid this danger is to take care when it comes to who–or what–you are following.
Specifically, make it your goal to follow the Good Shepherd.
Pursuing Him is the only safeguard against the harmful influences of this world…
And the surest way to stay on the course God has for you.
Follow wisely.
“My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me” (John 10:27).