House of DavidSample

YOUR DEFENDER AND SHIELD

When we hear the word shepherd, we might imagine an idyllic scene of a shepherd in the green grass among the wildflowers, keeping watch over his flock of fluffy cotton-white sheep. But a shepherd is more like a fierce warrior and protector.

David gave us a glimpse of a shepherd’s role when he volunteered to fight Goliath. He explained to King Saul: “I have been taking care of my father’s sheep and goats.… When a lion or a bear comes to steal a lamb from the flock, I go after it with a club and rescue the lamb from its mouth. If the animal turns on me, I catch it by the jaw and club it to death” (1 Samuel 17:34–36).

That’s hardcore. He sounds like a ninja out there defending his animals.

First Samuel tells us that the stone David flung at Goliath sank into the giant’s forehead. It didn’t bounce off his hard head; it penetrated like a musket ball. People who calculate such things say that a person who is adept with a sling can get a rock flying 100 to 150 miles per hour. David was one tough shepherd. No wonder he said God was his shepherd.

In Psalm 91, the psalmist underlines the wonderful truth that God is our protector: “Do not be afraid of the terrors of the night, nor the arrow that flies in the day. Do not dread the disease that stalks in darkness, nor the disaster that strikes at midday” (Psalm 91:6).

When you first open your eyes in the morning, the Lord is your protector. When your head hits the pillow at night, the Lord is your defender and shield.

By the way, the Bible tells us that God loves to take care of us. Jesus said, “Don’t be afraid, little flock. For it gives your Father great happiness to give you the Kingdom” (Luke 12:32). Does that mean nothing unpleasant will ever happen to us? Not at all. Jesus the Good Shepherd reminds us, “In this world you will have trouble.” But then He gives us the ultimate hope that He will indeed conquer our enemies: “But take heart! I have overcome the world” (John 16:33).

Good Shepherd, today I ask for a greater awareness of Your presence with me as my defender and protector. Thank You for always being ready to fight for me. Amen.