[:en]SCRIPTURE: PSALM 23
“The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not be in want. He makes me lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside quiet waters, he restores my soul. He guides me in paths of righteousness for his name’s sake” (Psalm 23:1-3)
“Surely goodness and love will follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever” (Psalm 23:6)
As a good shepherd, this is what God does for us:
- He provides our needs (v. 1)
- He gives relaxation and refreshment (v. 2)
- He guides the way (v. 3)
- He rescues us in danger (v. 4a)
- He is always present with us (v. 4b)
- He comforts us with rod and staff (v. 4c)
- He protects us from enemies (v. 5a)
- He blesses us abundantly (v. 5b)
- He bestows goodness and love (v. 6)
Here are the Old Testament names of God that is seen in this Psalm.
- Jehovah-Jireh – “The Lord will provide” (Genesis 22:14)
- Jehovah-Rapha – “The Lord will heal or restore” (Exodus 15:26)
- Jehovah-Shalom – “The Lord is Peace” (Judges 6:24)
- Jehovah-Tsidkenu – “The Lord Our Righteousness” (Jeremiah 23:6)
- Jehovah-Shammah – The Lord is there” (Ezekiel 48:35)
- Jehovah-Nissi – “The Lord is my banner” (Exodus 17:15)
- Jehovah-Raah – “The Lord is my shepherd” (Psalms 23:1)
When the Lord is our shepherd, we have assurance, comfort, healing, guidance, satisfaction and blessings. For surely goodness and mercy shall follow all the days of our lives. Are you willing to let the Lord be your shepherd?[:]