The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. – Psalm 23:1

Why would David compare God to a shepherd? David’s writing of the twenty-third Psalm may have come about while reflecting back to his youth.  As a shepherd boy, David was responsible for the care and wellbeing of his father’s flock.

A shepherd’s life is difficult and dangerous at times. David may have been recalling the difficulty of finding water and grass while searching the arid plains of the Ein Gedi region south of Bethlehem.

David’s recollection of his days as shepherd boy, even though those days were hard and sometimes dangerous, caused him to give thanks to God for providing everything he needed. He knew he would lack nothing with God as his provider.

Today, the world can be a scary place in which to live. Each day we are confronted with dangers that challenge our faith.  Like David, we must embrace God as our shepherd.  Then we can go forth each day without fear, for our Lord will shepherd us.

Listen to what Isaiah says about God’s care for you and me: “He will tend his flock like a shepherd; he will gather the lambs in his arms; he will carry them in his bosom, and gently lead those that are with young” (Isaiah 40:11).

Reflect, as David did, on God’s love for you, His precious sheep.

Prayer: Almighty God, give us the courage to face the evils of this world comforted with the knowledge of your saving grace through the death and resurrection of our Shepherd Jesus, the Christ. Amen.

Contributed by Conrad Griggs

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Bible Reading

Read Isaiah 40 and record any insights you gain here.

Call to Connection

Reflect on Scripture passages that are engrained in your memory. Ask a friend/family member what verses are fundamental to them today.