Ordinarily the goat is considered much smarter than the sheep. Not so! Here's why.
King David acknowledges in Psalm 23, while addressing God: "You are my Shepherd, I shall not want lack anything." (v1) Why? Because "You make me lie down in green pastures." (v2) This means: You provide enough food for me. Shepherds go to great lengths to ensure their animals are fed and watered. "You lead me beside still waters." (v3) I will never go thirsty. "You restore my soul." When I am sick, you take care of me. Afraid, you allay my fears. "He guides me in paths of righteousness for His name's sake." (v3b) This should stop me from doing the wrong things and getting into trouble.
"Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death I will fear no evil, for you are with me your rod and your staff will comfort me." (v4) Sometimes sheep wander away from the flock and fall into ravines or dried-up wells. The shepherd will leave the 99 behind, and with his staff hook the sheep by its neck into safety.
"You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies." (v5) Lord, You show my enemies that You cherish me and I am in good hands. Everything is working out for my good!
"You anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows." (v5b) Anointing is a sign that God's hand is upon you.
To crown it all, the sheep declares that "Goodness and mercy (attention, forgiveness) will follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever! (v6) This is the sum total of all the benefits that came to David as God's sheep. With this kind of pampering why would he like to be anything other than a Sheep. For David, God was his insurance cover. "I am staying put!" said David. Me too! Betteh dey!
