The Lord is my shepherd; I have all that I need. He lets me rest in green meadows; he leads me beside peaceful streams. He renews my strength. He guides me along right paths, bringing honor to his name. Even when I walk through the darkest valley, I will not be afraid, for you are close beside me. Your rod and your staff protect and comfort me. You prepare a feast for me in the presence of my enemies. You honor me by anointing my head with oil. My cup overflows with blessings. Surely your goodness and unfailing love will pursue me all the days of my life, and I will live in the house of the Lord forever.
Psalms 23:1-6 NLT
This is perhaps the most well–known psalm, quoted often at funerals. Yet the words are about more than death. This psalm talks about walking through life with a Shepherd, trusting in One who leads you to green meadows and peaceful waters. God is the One (not others) who anoints your head with oil and fills your cup overflowing with goodness. Even when you go through the dark valleys of life, the Good Shepherd is always with you. Jesus knows how painful life can be.
The Lord is your Shepherd – He leads you, and you follow Him. In the hard times, God’s rod and staff are beside you – the Lord’s comfort is next to you. The Savior’s goodness and love follow (or pursue) you. God is in front of you, beside you, and behind you. The Lord is all around you – leading you, loving you, and changing you every day.
What does it mean for you to follow the Good Shepherd, not expecting Him to follow you? How can you remember that the Savior is with you no matter what happens today?
