Psalms 23:1 – “The LORD is my shepherd, I shall not want.”  NASB

Let us now consider a second aspect of the personal ministry of Jesus as our Shepherd.  There are many things that need to be said but understanding the brevity of space and time I will highlight a few more aspects.  I hope they resonate with you and enhance your Christian walk.

THE SHEPHERD PROTECTS HIS FLOCK.

Psalm 23:4, tells us, “Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I fear no evil; for Thou art with me; Thy rod and Thy staff, they comfort me.”  We have a complete sense of security and safety.  We know that the shepherd’s crook (rod) and his staff were weapons of defense and implements of rescue for the sheep. 

The Shepherd protects against enemies.  The sheep were continually in danger from the wolf, bear, lion, and thief.  The shepherd’s presence banished all fear from the flock, and they grazed and rested with no fear.  Isaiah 26:3 speaks to this principle, “The steadfast of mind Thou wilt keep in perfect peace because he trusts in Thee.” 

The Shepherd protects the flock with his life.  Jesus warned in Matthew 10:16 that we were being sent out as sheep in the midst of ravenous wolves.  But He promised in Hebrews 13:5 that He would never leave or forsake us.  In John 16:33, He offered the comfort that He had overcome the world.   Therefore, He can be trusted completely!  It is impossible to get to us without going through Him and He is impenetrable.

THE SHEPHERD LEADS HIS FLOCK.

He never drives them, he leads them!  He leads to still, quiet, refreshing waters.  Those are not troubled waters that frequently we find ourselves.  When we are following the shepherd, He leads to still and quiet waters where we can be refreshed and restored.

Jesus said, “If any man thirsts let him come to Me and drink.”  He gives peace in the time of trouble and calm in the midst of the storm.  We saw that in Mark 4:39, “And being aroused, He rebuked the wind and said to the sea, “Hush, be still.” And the wind died down and it became perfectly calm.” 

He leads in right paths and those paths are safe paths and paths that bring good.  Jesus said, “I Am the Way, the Truth, and the Life.”  In Matthew 7:13-14 He said, “Enter by the narrow gate; for the gate is wide, and the way is broad that leads to destruction, and many are those who enter by it. 14 “For the gate is small, and the way is narrow that leads to life, and few are those who find it.”  He never drives the sheep, He leads them!

THE SHEPHERD LOVES HIS FLOCK.

He loves them individually and loves them as a flock.  Every possible preparation has been made to ensure that we are able to live for and through Him.  He wants us to enjoy His rich blessings, have heaven on earth, and live eternally with Him in heaven.  He will lead us if we will follow.

What do you need from the Good Shepherd today?  Do you need refreshing, peace, protection, nourishment, healing, deliverance?  Whatever you need know that the Shepherd is whatever you need and in Him and through Him we have what we need in His provisions and promises!

God bless you as you enjoy this beautiful day in Jesus!