“I am the Good Shepherd” (John 10:11)

As we approach Psalm 23, we need to understand that there are “good” shepherds and “bad” shepherds.  When David writes, “The Lord is my Shepherd“, he is talking about the only “good” Shepherd which is revealed to us in Jesus specifically.  This “good” Shepherd is described as One that “knows His sheep” and “His sheep know Him” (John 10:14).  In contrast, there are “bad” shepherds out there who do not have a relationship with their sheep.  They prey on those who are wandering and looking for direction.  They take advantage of those who are lonely and hurting.  They have no interest in the well being of their sheep.  They are self-serving and only interested in what’s in it for them.  They are cheap imitations. In short, they’re bad shepherds.  Jesus describes them as “hired hands” that do not “know” the sheep or care about them.

David’s opening statement is one of trust.  “The Lord is my Shepherd”.  You can almost hear it in his voice.  There is an element of peace that comes from knowing that He is the Good Shepherd.  It brings the comfort that allows us to relax from the very beginning of the Psalm.  Did you read it today?  If not read it now.  Let the words in that first phrase fill your mind and sink down into your heart.  Can you feel the refreshing peace flow into your spirit?  The “LORD ” is your Shepherd.  He is the Good Shepherd.  You have made the right choice!  He knows you and you know Him.

How is it that we know Him?  Jesus says that the sheep follow Him because, “He calls His own sheep by name…and His sheep follow Him because they know His voice” (John 10:3,4).  

Have you heard Jesus, The Good Shepherd, call your name?  He knows you.  He is calling.  Do you recognize His voice?  There is something deep inside you that knows He is the Good Shepherd. 

If you haven’t responded.  Do it.  You can trust Him.

He is the Good Shepherd!

Today meditate on the truth that the Lord is your Shepherd. Read Psalm 23.