ZECHARIAH 11:15
“And the LORD said to me, ‘Take again for yourself the equipment of a foolish shepherd.’”
My dad had quite the tool collection when he passed away. Over decades he had accumulated those tools, one by one, as he needed them. I remember him telling me that if he had a job to do at the house or on one of our vehicles that required a certain tool, he would purchase it. That way he would have it the next time it was needed. Having the right tool is important.
The Lord tells Zechariah to act the part of a foolish shepherd and acquire the wrong tool. Cyril explains it well. “Good shepherds, who understood their business, had slight staves, that, if there should be occasion to strike, the stricken sheep might not be bruised; but one who understandeth not, beats them with thicker clubs.” Right job, wrong tool. Damage was done with the wrong tool.
APPLICATION
There are so many good applications to this truth today. Let’s take, for example, preaching and teaching about God. We have the perfect tool to use for that – the Bible. Those who study and prepare are able to use it for God’s glory. Others use everything but the Word. They use social media. They use lights and music. They will use anything but the Word. Right job, wrong tool.
If you are in the position to lead others in your church, remember to use His Word. James 3:1 says, “Do not become teachers in large numbers, my brothers, since you know that we who are teachers will incur a stricter judgment.” This is serious business. We have to use the right tool and use it correctly. Even the right tool handled incorrectly can harm.
I am thankful for mentors in my life who have taught me well. They showed me the importance of holding God’s Word in the highest regard and to be careful in how I handle it. I have to be careful to make sure everything I say is based on His Word, not mine. I know I have the right tool, and I know I have the right job. But I must continue to sharpen my skills in handling this tool.
O God, Your Word is the truth I need to share. Give me the wisdom to teach it well.