Our Daily Bread: Lead Like the ShepherdSample

Followed

Surely your goodness and unfailing love will pursue me all the days of my life. -Psalm 23:6

Having experienced near-starvation as a stray, my cat Mickey used to follow me around frantically whenever I prepared his food. He’d known food to be a scarce resource and would panic during mealtimes, afraid I wouldn’t feed him.

The desperation with which he pursued me showed me how much he must have suffered on the streets. Over time, though, he felt more secure and panicked less.

One night, after he’d run into the street, I followed him and lured him back with a dish of food. “See how much I love you, you silly cat,” I told him as he ate. “I’ll always follow you and bring you home.”

That night, I thought of how God loves us. His is a love that steadfastly follows us (Psalm 23:6). We don’t have to worry about losing His affection, nor do we have to chase in desperation after things we believe will make us whole. Because we’re safe in our Shepherd’s care, we lack nothing (v. 1).

He provides what we need, guides us, and protects us (vv. 2−5). He restores us from whatever we’ve suffered, and in His love, we can rest (vv. 2−3). We no longer need to be afraid, for He’s always with us (v. 4), and He, in turn, will help us shepherd others.

We’re home in Jesus, and we can look forward with certainty to enjoying the presence of our Shepherd forever (v. 6).

Karen Huang

What things have you been chasing after that seem scarce to you? How can it help to remember that God’s love follows you and gives you all you need?

My Shepherd, thank You that I don’t need to worry, for Your goodness and love will follow me always. I can be sure that I’m safe in Your care.