1st Peter 2:25. “For ye were as sheep going astray; but are now returned unto the Shepherd and Bishop of your souls.” WERE… BUT NOW. In the past far away and going much farther Self-willed and thinking little of a gracious heavenly Father Not concerned about sin’s guilt nor taking time to bother – To seek Him while He could be found.
In the dark not realizing what real light is Walking in darkness going deeper in sins Not looking above at the glory that is His – A sheep in a dark night is lost.
Changes have come, the lost sheep is found The wanderer has stopped – grace turned him around Now in Beulah-land walking on holy ground – The Shepherd has the sheep in His fold.
Now instead of darkness he is walking in the light Now walking by faith – no longer in the night Realizing living by faith is much better than sight – The Bishop tends to the need of his soul.
One time blind, but now by grace can see One time an alien, no longer an enemy One time lost, but now saved for eternity – The wanderer is safe and secure.
“Father, all Thy blessings are so appreciated now. How gracious of Thee to bring straying people into Thy family. I thank Thee in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ, Amen.”