Read: Psalm 23

The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want.

–Psalm 23:1 KJV

In reading through this short Psalm, I am struck by the amazing subtle (and not so subtle) ways God shows His care for us–like a shepherd cares for his sheep.

The shepherd carefully leads his sheep by still, quiet waters to keep them safe. He doesn’t lead them by raging torrents that would endanger the vulnerable and top-heavy sheep. In such ways God protects you and me. Often, even without being aware He is doing so, God provides a safe place of quietness where we can be fed.

The shepherds guides his sheep to the best pastures with succulent grass to ensure the sheep have adequate nourishment. God provides nourishment for us through His Word that heals, restores, and offers guidance, truth and hope. He nourishes through fellowship with other believers and relates to you and me on a personal level through prayer.

Yes, the Good Shepherd protects and provides for His sheep. He cares about each one individually and will protect them, if necessary, with his own life. God in Jesus Christ has already sacrificed His life for you and me.

Jesus Christ stood before the court of all the universe and allowed the punishment we deserved to be handed down to Him. He, willingly, took the consequences for all the awful choices we make in thought, words and behavior. He loves you and me that much. He died that you and I could live, if we accept the gift of life He offers.

In His death, Jesus turned the cross, a symbol of horrific death, into a symbol of life. For all time, He conquered sin and death and hell. What a loving, caring God we serve?

Like the shepherd, Jesus provides, protects and guides not only for today, but for all eternity.

Thank you, Jesus you loved me enough to come, to live, to die and to conquer death, that You could offer me an abundant life now and forever with You. Please always be my Shepherd. Amen.

Meditations:

Monday: Matthew 18:11-14; 19:14

Tuesday: John 10:1-15

Wednesday: John 8:31-36

Thursday: John 5:20-24

Friday: John 3:1-15

Saturday: John 3:16-21, 36

By Carolyn R Scheidies

From Listen! Who Me?