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"When we are fearful and worried all the time, we are living as if we don't believe that we have a strong and able Shepherd who is tenderhearted toward us, who only leads us to good places, who protects us and lovingly watches over us. " - Joseph Prince
"The LORD is my Shepherd, I shall not want. He maketh me to lie down in green pastures. He leadeth me beside the still waters. He restoreth my soul. He leadeth me in paths of righteousness for His name's sake." (Psalm 23:1-4) Almost every Christian has memorized this entire Psalm. A SHEPHERD is a person who tends and rears sheep. This word is also used to describe a member of the clergy who provides spiritual care and guidance for a congregation. Jesus described Himself in John 10 as "The Good Shepherd." He describes His characteristics:
- His sheep listen to Him. He calls his own sheep by name and leads them out. He goes ahead of them and His sheep follow Him because they know His voice. They will never follow the voice of a stranger, because they don't recognize a stranger's voice (vs. 4-5)
- He will lay down His life for His sheep. He cares for the sheep and will not abandon them in trouble.
- His sheep know Him, just as the Father knows His Son, Jesus.
I am struck by where the LORD as Shepherd leads His flock and what He makes us do. David said, "He makes me lie down in green pastures. He leads me beside still waters." Phillip Kellers seminal book, "A Shepherd Looks at Psalm 23" reveals:
"The strange thing about sheep is that because of their very makeup it is almost impossible for them to be made to lie down unless four requirements are met. 1) Owing to their timidity they refuse to lie down unless they are free of all fear. 2) Because of the social behavior within a flock, sheep will not lie down unless they are free from friction with others of their kind. 3) If tormented by flies or parasites, sheep will not lie down. Only when free of these pests can they relax. 4) Lastly, sheep will not lie down as long as they feel in need of finding food. They must be free from hunger. It is significant that to be at rest there must be a definite sense of freedom from fear, tension, aggravations, and hunger.
The unique aspect of the picture is that it is only the sheepman himself who can provide release from these anxieties. It all depends upon the diligence of the owner whether or not his flock is free of disturbing influences. It is actually he who makes it possible for them to lie down, to rest, to relax, to be content and quiet and flourishing. A flock that is restless, discontented, always agitated and disturbed never does well. And the same is true of people." Selah...
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9, as one of the LORD's sheep and as an under-shepherd, I'm glad to know that I can apply this Scripture to better trust God's care and discern His guidance. As I make decisions the LORD reminds me of the reputation of His name, Jehovah Rohi - God my Shepherd. I look forward to a great New Year!
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