Worship: A Study in PsalmsSample

What does it say?

David described the Lord as his Shepherd and anticipated dwelling in the house of the Lord forever.

What does it mean?

It’s interesting that David, a shepherd, wrote this psalm from the perspective of a sheep. Years of watching flocks had demonstrated how much he was like the dim-witted animals he cared for. Sheep tend to wander. A shepherd uses his rod and staff to protect his sheep from wild animals and pull them back when they wander into danger. Sheep are also followers, which is good as long as they listen for the voice of their shepherd. He leads them to food and water, safe places to rest, and through deep valleys. David didn’t exclude the dark times from the Lord’s love and goodness; it was then that he stopped talking about the Lord and began to talk to Him. As part of the Lord’s flock, David was provided with satisfaction, direction, and protection.

How should I respond?

This well-known passage foreshadows Jesus Christ as the Good Shepherd (John 10:11-15). It also reiterates how much we have in common with the characteristics of sheep. Are you following or wandering? Is He currently leading you into a time of rest or through a deep, dark valley? The Good Shepherd will provide you with satisfaction, direction, and protection, but you can’t look to the Lord as your Shepherd unless you’ve surrendered to Him as your Savior. Jesus will never lead you through a place where He cannot care for you. Remember, the valley is not the destination – it’s temporary. He’s ultimately leading you to dwell with Him forever. Keep listening to His voice … keep following.