What Does it Signify to be Aware of the State of Your Flock? – By Babatunde Olugboji
Many proverbs convey insights regarding the management of wealth. Proverbs 27:23–27 highlights the fleeting nature of material riches and emphasizes the importance of preparing for periods of scarcity: “Be sure you know the condition of your flocks, give careful attention to your herds; for riches do not endure forever” (Proverbs 27: 23–24).
When Solomon said, “Know the condition of your flock,” he implies that individuals should be mindful of their means of livelihood and practice good stewardship so that, in times of economic downturn, they will not find themselves destitute. Similarly, a contemporary farmer might suggest, “Invest your heart in caring for your flock, as it will meet your needs in the future.” God urges us to engage diligently and thoughtfully in our work and business endeavors. In ancient Israel, flocks of sheep and herds of goats were essential sources of sustenance.
When properly cared for, these animals would yield clothing, milk, food, and income for the entire family (refer to Proverbs 27:26–27). It is crucial for individuals to tend to the resources bestowed upon them by God. Proverbs 27:1 cautions, “Do not boast about tomorrow, for you do not know what a day may bring.” Given our inability to predict the future, prudent financial management necessitates planning for challenging days and ensuring sufficient provisions for our families in the years ahead.
In the original Hebrew, the term for “know” in Proverbs 27:23 means “to possess knowledge through experience; to be aware of someone or something via observation or sensory perception.” A direct translation of the verse would be “examine the faces of your flock.” Jesus stated, “I am the good shepherd; I know my sheep and my sheep know me” (John 10:14). No one understands our situation better than the Lord Jesus Christ, our Good Shepherd, who guides us personally and calls us by name (John 10:3).
As His followers, “we are the people of his pasture, the flock under his care” (Psalm 95:7). Indeed, we are called to diligently work and carefully manage our resources, yet it is ultimately God’s loving provision that meets our every need (Philippians 4:19–20). By utilizing the metaphor of a shepherd, we can extend the interpretation of Proverbs 27:23 beyond personal wealth into the domain of pastoral leadership.
When overseers of God’s people perform their duties effectively, attentively caring for their congregations – when they are aware of the condition of their flocks – they not only protect the current state of the people but also ensure their security for the future.
Paul, who frequently expressed concern for the well-being of his congregation, appeared to reference Proverbs 27:23 when addressing the elders of the Ephesian church: “Pay careful attention to yourselves and to all the flock, in which the Holy Spirit has made you overseers, to care for the church of God, which he obtained with his own blood. I know that after my departure fierce wolves will come in among you, not sparing the flock” (Acts 20:28–29).
He regarded pastors as shepherds of the church (Ephesians 4:11). Subsequently, Paul instructed Timothy to lead or “shepherd” by setting an example: “Keep a close watch on how you live and on your teaching. Stay true to what is right for the sake of your own salvation and the salvation of those who hear you” (1 Timothy 4:16).
Peter also referenced Proverbs 27:23 when he advised the church’s elders, “Care for the flock that God has entrusted to you. Watch over it willingly, not grudgingly—not for what you will get out of it, but because you are eager to serve God. Don’t lord it over the people assigned to your care, but lead them by your own good example. And when the Great Shepherd appears, you will receive a crown of never-ending glory and honor” (1 Peter 5:2–4, NLT). A leader’s diligent and compassionate attention to understanding the state of his flock today ensures provision and blessings for tomorrow.
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