The Shepherd

Psalm 23

The Lord is my shepherd;

I shall not want.

He makes me to lie down in green pastures;

He leads me beside the still waters.

He restores my soul;

He leads me in the paths of righteousness

for His name's sake.

Yea, 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,

they comfort me.

You prepare a table before me

in the presence of my enemies;

You anoint my head with oil;

my cup runs over.

Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me

all the days of my life;

and I will dwell in the house of the Lord

Forever.

Why is this such a popular Psalm? The truths, like all of Scripture, are deep and everlasting. Rereading this Psalm with a fresh new look, creates in me such comfort! My LORD, my Shepherd, truly will take care of me. It is such a comfort to know that my Shepherd is so intimately concerned about my life. He cares for my daily physical and spiritual needs. He is my LORD, but acts like my servant. I am so humbled and overwhelmed with love towards this One who cares so much for me. Truly it is too wonderful for me to comprehend.

What is your shepherd to you?  What in your life does He care about? Read this Psalm.  He cares for your ever want.....for your safety....for your salvation....for your daily needs....for your spiritual needs.  He cares for you so intimately, more than any one in your life right now.  Jesus cares for you. Let that truth sink in and fill your hurting heart.  If your heart is full from life, empty your life so you can be filled with Him.  Let Him fill your cup, so that His love, mercy, and goodness will run-over. Sometimes God empties your cup for you. He will take away, seemingly "everything" - only to show you that you can have more with Him.  Read Psalm 23 again and see the intimate Shepherd who cares for you more than anyone.

God never abandons anyone on whom He has set His love; nor does Christ, the good shepherd, ever lose track of His sheep. - J.I. Packer

The Shepherd
Loves His sheep
Cares for His sheep
Intimately knows His sheep
Hears His sheep cry
Runs to care for His sheep.
Provides for His sheep.
Spends His time with His sheep.

The Sheep
Love Him in return.
Rest in His comfort.
Yearn to know Him more.
Cry to Him first.
Accept what He has given.
Know your needs are provided.
Learn to spend time with Him more.