‘The Lord is my Shepherd” -Psalm 23:1

We have established this week that the Shepherd in Psalm 23 that David is referring to is the Good Shepherd. Jesus revealed this as well when He described Himself as the Good Shepherd in John chapter 10 when He said, “I am the Good Shepherd and the Good Shepherd lays down His life for the sheep”.  So, Jesus not only claimed to be the Good Shepherd…He proved it by going to the cross for us…His sheep.

Why use a shepherd as a model for our relationship with God?  What was David thinking?  First, we are reminded that before David was a King or a warrior, he was a shepherd.  We are first introduced to this young man when he was called in from the fields to meet with the Prophet Samuel.  David knew what being a shepherd was all about.  He knew the difference between a good one and a bad one.  Oh, and by the way, from what the Scriptures tell us…David was a good shepherd.  He not only watched over the sheep but protected them by risking his own life.

As you read through Psalm 23 today, I would like to offer some additional characteristics that are common in a Good Shepherd that we find in Scripture.  First, the Good Shepherd comes looking for His sheep.  Luke 15 Jesus told the story of the shepherd who left the 99 sheep to go looking for the one that was lost.  Jesus came to this world to “seek and save” those who are lost.  He is the Good Shepherd.

Second, a Good Shepherd calls to the sheep.  Jesus said, “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest” (Matt. 11:28).  The sheep come and follow because they recognize His voice (John 10:4).

Third, a Good Shepherd cares.  “God so loved the world…” (John 3:16).  “When He saw the crowds, He had compassion on them, because they were harassed and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd” (Matt. 9:36).

Oh yes, He is the Good Shepherd.  Is He yours?  If so, say it with David today.

The Lord is my Shepherd!