There is great assurance in the rod and staff, and when we have assurance we have comfort.
Why is the rod and staff comforting? The rod and the staff are used for our protection.
First, the rod is used to keep the wolves and any other danger at bay. The staff is there to pull us back into the fold when we are wandering astray.
In the story of the Good Shepherd, Jesus shows us that He calls His sheep by name and leads them out. His sheep hear His voice, and they follow. If you have heard the Shepherd’s call, and have followed Him, there is nothing that can snatch you from His hand.
The protective rod is used against all enemies that seek to rob, steal and destroy His sheep. The saving staff hooks our neck and pulls us back into Himself when we stray.
“He will not let you stumble; the one who watches over you will not slumber.” Psalm 121:3
This is great assurance!
Salvation is not you knowing Jesus, it’s Jesus knowing you.
“For no one can come to me unless the Father who sent me draws them to me…..” John 6:44
It’s not about our knowledge of Him and what we may do in His name. Many performed deeds in His name, but Jesus said, “depart from me. I never knew you.” Matthew 7:23
These people were following Jesus for the wrong reasons. They wanted all the benefits and none of the submission. They did not find comfort in the rod and staff.
The rich young ruler knew of Jesus. He knew the 10 commandments and seemed to follow them to the letter, but Jesus knowing his heart, said “sell your possessions and follow me.” The young ruler went away sad. He didn’t find any comfort in the rod and the staff.
Is your assurance placed in what you do for God, or what He did, does and will do for you?He laid down His life for His sheep.
Are you comforted by the hand of grace always working to correct you, keep you protected from the enemy, and lead you. Are you fully in submission to the Shepherd? Have you found comfort in the rod and the staff?
The disciples asked Jesus after they heard the exchange with the rich young ruler, “Then who in the world can be saved,’?”
“Jesus looked at them intently and said, “Humanly speaking, it is impossible. But with God everything is possible.” Mathew 19:25-26
stones from the quarry 