By
the title you’re no doubt thinking about David.
That’s good, because God’s standard for His kings was the
shepherd-turned-king. He is also the one
who penned the great shepherd psalm (Psalm 23).
However, there is another great shepherd-king; one that many take for
granted. God, Himself, says that He is
our shepherd and He is the King of Kings.
It can’t be sacrilegious, then, to think of God this way; especially
since He refers to Himself with this imagery (Jeremiah 23 & Ezekiel 34).
So what can we learn about God with these mysterious
revelations?
First, we can
know that He cares for us in a very special way. Taking note of Psalm 23 it is apparent that He is a loving
provider: no lack of anything, still waters, green pastures, anointing oil. He sees that we have an abundance of every good, practical, and peaceful thing.
Secondly, He
stands guard to protect us. His rod
keeps our enemy at bay.
Thirdly, He
guides us through life (good times as well as bad). His staff keeps us on the right path and He shares our trek
through the valley of the shadow of death.
Fourth, and
most important, He generously gives us a safe, comfortable home; one we will occupy for eternity in His
presence.
Keep in mind, though, that we do have an obligation
toward Him in light of all these wonderful blessings. We are required to follow our Shepherd. It won’t do for us to wander off the true
path and go exploring. Outside of His
sheepfold lies danger in the form of poisonous influences and predators hungry
for a kill. Only by keeping in step with
God / Jesus (trusting, obeying, and persevering) can we be safe from all harm.
If you’re striving to stay in step with your
Shepherd-king, remember to continue to be the holy and righteous person He
created you to be; keep walking in the light with Him. If,
however, you have been lax and have drifted away, consider it time to return to
the Shepherd of your soul. It’s very
comforting to enjoy the blessings of a Shepherd who willingly provides all of
your needs and protections. Come to Him;
He cares for you. And He wants to make
wonderful things of your life.
Doug
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