My people hath been lost sheep - He pities them; for their pastors, kings, and prophets have caused them to err.
They have gone from mountain to hill - In all high places they have practiced idolatry.
Their shepherds mountains - Some translate it: Their shepherds, i. e., civil rulers (Jeremiah 2:8 note) “have led them astray upon the seducing moutains.” - the mountains being the usual places where idolatry was practiced.
Their restingplace - Their fold Psalm 23:2.
Hearts of Flesh, Not Hearts of Iron—I call to mind the shepherd hunting the lost sheep and the prodigal son. I want those parables to have their influence upon my heart and my mind. I think of Jesus, what love and tenderness He manifested for erring, fallen man, and then I think of the severe judgment one pronounces upon his brother who has failed under temptation, and my heart becomes sick. I see the iron in hearts, and think we should pray for hearts of flesh.... TSB 242.3
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