Homilist Micah 5:4 And he shall stand and feed in the strength of the LORD, in the majesty of the name of the LORD his God; and they shall abide… I. HIS ACTIVITY AND ZEAL. "He shall stand." We read of idle shepherds, who lie down and sleep and neglect their flock. This attitude of standing shows — 1. Dignity. He is the Royal Shepherd. 2. Observation. He who stands can survey all around. 3. Attention. He does not withdraw His eyes. He that keepeth Israel neither slumbers nor sleeps. II. HIS REGARD. "He shall feed." The term feed is not confined to providing food. It applies to all the duties of a shepherd. And this office consists of unwearied care, such as — 1. Causing them to rest. The weary child of God must pause, and the wise Shepherd selects the time and place. 2. Leading them. The Eastern shepherd treads the ground before his flock. 3. Restoring the wanderers. There are always the erring and wandering — headstrong, foolish, daring. 4. Healing the wounded. 5. Defending the weak and securing the flock. III. HIS ABILITY. "In the strength of the Lord." This does not mean "borrowed" strength; the strength of the Lord is His own. And power is needed. Who can realise the danger and difficulties of the Church on earth, or the trials of a struggling soul? IV. HIS DIGNITY. "In the majesty of His God." Majesty combined with strength. How majestic was Christ, even in His humiliation! Majesty combined with simplicity; majesty and gentleness. But Christ is terrible in majesty, terrible to His foes. Who shall abide His day? Yea, He is terrible to the foes of His flock. (Homilist.) Parallel Verses KJV: And he shall stand and feed in the strength of the LORD, in the majesty of the name of the LORD his God; and they shall abide: for now shall he be great unto the ends of the earth. |
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