The Good Shepherd-Psalm 23:1 ESV

1 The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want.

Shepherds are mentioned quite frequently in the Bible. The book of Genesis tells the life stories of several shepherds. King David shepherded his father’s sheep before he became king. Angels announced the birth of Jesus to some shepherds. Zechariah speaks of the worthless shepherd who deserts the flock, and Jesus refers to himself as the Good Shepherd, the one who will not desert His flock. He calls His flock by name, and knowing his voice, they follow Him. He is also referred to as the Chief Shepherd by Peter, and pastors, referred to as shepherds, are told to shepherd their flocks.

In Psalm 23, David speaks of the Lord as being his Shepherd. As the Good Shepherd, Jesus provides our needs, he gives us rest, he restores our soul, and he leads us in the paths of righteousness for His name’s sake.

We can depend on Him to be with us and to protect us when we go through various trials and tribulations. He supplies the food for our daily nourishment, He fills us up with His Spirit, and He tells us in John chapter 14 that He is preparing a place for us in His Father’s kingdom and will return to take us there so we can be with Him forever.

Have you come to the Good Shepherd? Have you acknowledged your need for Him? Have you placed your faith in Him? He will never let you down. He will never refuse you, and He will never leave you or forsake you.

Jesus died for you and has promised to take care of your every need, especially your biggest needs: forgiveness of your sins and salvation of your soul. If you have not yet come to Christ, today is the day. Come to the Good Shepherd and receive the blessings of God.