A Good Shepherd-2

Scripture:

“The Lord is my shepherd; I have all that I need. He lets me rest in green meadows; he leads me beside peaceful streams. He renews my strength. He guides me along right paths, bringing honor to his name. Even when I walk through the darkest valley, I will not be afraid, for you are close beside me.” Psalm 23: 1-4a (NLT)

Perspective:

David wrote many songs about the challenges and joys in life that are recorded in the Psalms. He knew what it was like to be on the run for his life, people against him, losing a child, and having family strife. However, he also understood how God played a significant role in each step of his journey. He had grown up being a shepherd. Out in the fields, he would care for his sheep and keep predators from killing them. The sheep didn’t sit around worrying about their safety; they had a shepherd who would guide them to safety and places of sustenance. David used this analogy in Psalm 23 to relate God to something very familiar to him. As a shepherd, God would lead him through peaceful seasons and difficulties. He would not have to fear for his life because the relative proximity of his shepherd.

 

We live in a turbulent world. Change is constant, and peace can seem illusive. The darkest valleys will come. Yet, in midst of it all, David knew a secret to sustaining God’s peace in His life. Proximity to God changes our perspective. In John 10:11 (NLT), Jesus said, “I am the good shepherd.” Jesus used the same analogy to help us understand how He cares for us. We do not need to fear when God is walking beside us. You may need rest, peace, strength, direction, or provision today. You may feel like the darkest valley is consuming you. Valleys are usually positioned between mountains. Don’t let fear overcome you if the Good Shepherd is right beside you. Keep walking because the valley won’t last forever.

Scripture quotations marked (NLT) are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright © 1996, 2004, 2007 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.

Photo by Peppe Ragusa via Creative Commons

[separator_small separator_width=” thickness=” up=” down=”]

honacutout

About Hona Amer

I help people live life to the fullest. Check out my book, Smart Work U. Follow me on TwitterFacebook, or Instagram. In order to receive updates, subscribe below.

[separator_small separator_width=” thickness=” up=” down=”]

Discover how to start a business + lead your life + create a life you love. Don't miss a post!:

email