The Lord is my shepherd.
Scripture
“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.” Psalms 23:1-2
Observation
A shepherd is someone who guides , protects and cares for sheep. In this scripture , the psalmist David is saying the Lord does these for him. However , it had me thinking that on the receiving end you must also want to be guided, protected and cared for, for that to happen. I’m reminded of the scripture that says , why do you call me Lord and not do as I say ? (Luke 6:46). For those who truly have the Lord as their shepherd, He makes sure you’re never in lack. The irony is as humans sometimes we may feel as though we lack but it’s important to also trust the timing of the Lord. There are things you may want but if God was to give it to you , it’ll result in harm. Think about it , which good shepherd will withhold good things from their sheep ? (Psalms 84:11). When a sheep lies down in green pastures it improves health and gives it nutrients. Interestingly, sheep need still waters because it’s easier for them to drink peacefully as they are not good swimmers and get scared of water that moves too fast or is noisy. Mirroring this to our relationship with God, being under His authority looks like prosperity and peace in every area of our life.
Application
We’re quick to say we won’t lack because the Lord is our shepherd. The question is, is He truly your shepherd? Do you listen to His counsel for guidance ? Do you obey His words which allow for you to be protected ? Or are you yielding to your fleshly desires and have idols in your life that dictate your actions ? It’s important to trust the leading of God even when you don’t understand it (Proverbs 3:5-6). Sometimes we can attest that “no” or “not yet” we received from God was the best thing that could have happened in our lives. No matter what your circumstance is have rest knowing you’re never in lack provided God is your shepherd. A life of submission is worth the peace that God has to give even in the midst of trials. The peace God gives is not as the world gives (John 14:27) . Obedience is key if you truly want to partake in the goodness and abundance that God has to give.
Prayer
Heavenly Father thank You for being my good shepherd. Thank You that I do not lack. Thank You for your abundance. Help me to live a life of surrender and obedience in every area of my life in Jesus name I pray amen.