Good Shepherd

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Psalm 23:1 
“The Lord is my Shepherd . . .”

In this Psalm, David uses the illustration of a shepherd to speak of God’s care for those who belong to Him. This Psalm speaks of the benefits true to all who are in a covenant relationship with God. He speaks of God’s provision, comfort, protection and care. Jesus used the same illustration in John 10 when He said,

“But you do not believe, because you are not of My sheep, as I said to you. My sheep hear My voice, and I know them, and they follow Me. And I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish; neither shall anyone snatch them out of My hand.” John 10:26-28

While the poetry of this Psalm is beautiful and comforting, it is important that we realize the promises are for those who have received Jesus Christ as their Lord and Savior. If you want to experience God in the way that David describes Him, it begins with surrendering your life to Christ and following Him. Once that has happened, all these great and precious promises belong to you. As long as you live like a sheep outside the fold of God, you miss out on the loving care of the Good Shepherd; life’s difficulties must be faced with your own strength and resources. However, the moment you surrender to Him, He becomes your Shepherd, and you begin to lie down in green pastures, walk by still waters, benefit from His rod and staff, and experience goodness and mercy following after you.

With all that is promised to the one who follows Christ, it is so foolish to refuse Him. What are you holding back from God that is better than all He wants to do for you? Will you make Him your Shepherd today?

Pastor Jim

Questions for Psalm 23
This is one of the most well-known of all David’s songs. We love it because of the truths about God that are revealed to us.

  1. How does David refer to God?
  2. What benefits are listed for those in a relationship with God?
  3. We enter a relationship with God through Christ. Have you received Christ as your Lord and Savior? If not do that right now. Pray telling Him that you want to be His follower.
  4. What is the shadow of death?
  5. What does an overflowing cup look like? Why does David use this metaphor?

Old Testament:
Psalm 24- Coming Messiah
1 Samuel 22- Great Opportunities
1 Samuel 23- Strong hands

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