Doin' the Feedin'

When I was growing up, the duty of feeding the livestock was called “doin’ the feedin’.” It was a necessary chore that could never be shirked regardless of circumstances. We had pigs, lambs, dogs and cats in various combinations over the years. The care of the animals was a top priority. Even now, the first consideration of any plan for the day or the weekend is figuring out doin’ the feedin’.

In my Christian walk, I’ve often regarded myself as needing someone to feed me. I’ve made decisions on where to go to church, what small groups to join, etc. based on my view of needing to be fed. Sometimes I am the lamb needing fed. Lately, though, God has shown me that there are times when I need to be “doin’ the feedin’.” I may find myself in a situation where I will not be fed in the manner I’d like. Is God going to let me spiritually starve? No.

There are so many bible verses that spring to my mind when I think about this topic. The passage that motivated me to write this is from John 21. Jesus is talking to Peter in verse 15:

When they had finished eating, Jesus said to Simon Peter, “Simon son of John, do you truly love me more than these?

“Yes, Lord,” he said, “you know that I love you.”

Jesus said, “Feed my lambs.”

It’s not enough to say we love Jesus, we must willingly serve Him. Are we sitting back waiting to be fed, or are we willing to figuratively pick up the feed scoop and start doin’ the feedin’?