Growing up and hunting in Arkansas there are a couple of good reasons I never encountered a wolf; I was not Davy Crocket because I make too much noise, and I am not a good sign reader. Also, wolves are not common in Arkansas.

Wolves are fascinating animals. Unlike us they do not have Wal-Mart(s) or a Kroger to shop for supper. They must constantly be on the hunt, or they will starve. Wolves are smart. They think strategically. “Wolves primarily hunt in packs using cooperative strategies like running down prey and isolating the weak, sick, or young individuals from a herd. They often use stamina to chase prey over long distances, causing exhaustion and mistakes, while other wolves use tactics like flanking, ambushing, or driving prey into difficult terrain to make the kill. Wolves can also hunt alone, especially when targeting smaller prey, and often employ ambushing techniques.” 

One phrase jumped out at me as I read this, “They often use stamina to chase prey over long distances, causing exhaustion and mistakes…” Think about it. Do you feel like an exhausted deer or rabbit? You have been running and running…busy every day. You sense if you stop, something is going to get you. You have convinced yourself that you don’t have time to rest and there is no safe place. The wolf is on your trail.

Good News! There is only ONE safe & restful place. It’s the refuge and safety of our Lord’s loving arms. Jesus told us in John 10:11-18, “I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep. The hired hand is not the shepherd and does not own the sheep. So when he sees the wolf coming, he abandons the sheep and runs away. Then the wolf attacks the flock and scatters it. The man runs away because he is a hired hand and cares nothing for the sheep.” Know this! The wolf (the world) will tell you this does not make sense. Don’t believe the lie.

Jesus, the Good Shepherd, has not run away. He Loved you & I so much He carried your and my cross to Calvary to die on for our sins. And the incredible news, He beat the wolf. He rose from the dead and lives today. He concurred death and all who give their heart to him will live with Him forever. No longer being hunted & stalked. (Romans 10:9; John 14:2-3; John 10:28)

Jesus is calling. “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.” Matthew 11:28-30

Isn’t it time to stop running?