The Good Shepherd

Psalm 23
The Lord is my shepherd,
I shall not want.
2 He makes me lie down in green pastures;
He leads me beside quiet waters.
3 He restores my soul;
He guides me in the paths of righteousness
For His name’s sake.
4 Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death,
I fear no evil, for You are with me;
Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me.
5 You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies;
You have anointed my head with oil;
My cup overflows.
6 Surely goodness and lovingkindness will follow me all the days of my life,
And I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever.

Jesus came to show us what the Father is really like, so when He said, “I am the Good Shepherd” he was telling us something of God’s diligent and faithful care. He then said, “I know my sheep and my sheep know me.” He knows each and every one of us and understands all of our human situations and needs.

There are different seasons of life with different needs. Sometimes we are in need of rest — the human equivalent of lying by still waters. At other times we need guidance, and so his righteous hands deliberately direct our steps. His goodness and mercy follow us, hemming us in and serving as protection against the harsh elements and circumstances of life. Others seasons of life are dark and dangerous, and we need to look to Him because the only alternative in those moments seems to run in fear. But even in the presence of our enemies He wants us to rejoice in Him. God has set before us a celebration meal, but not for after we get out of the dark valley, but in the very midst of it.

Is our Shepherd out of touch with our reality? Hardly. Jesus is the only shepherd who knows what it’s like to also be a sheep (John 10:11). He understands what we are going through and will be with us every step of the way, even through death itself—nothing can separate us from Him (Romans 8:39).

What aspect of this famous Psalm can you currently most relate to?

In the last few months, what’s a tangible way you have seen God has shepherding your life?


Lord, if I fed on your love, grace and truth I would want for nothing. Forgive me for seeking lesser joys and thank you for constant care and presence. You are always with me, and you will lead me to the home I’ve been longing for my whole life. Help me rest in that. Amen.