The Lord is my shepherd, I lack nothing. He takes me to lush pastures, he leads me to refreshing water. He restores my strength. He leads me down the right paths for the sake of his reputation. Psalm 23.1-3
David, the author of this psalm, knew firsthand about being a shepherd. He had been a shepherd taking care of his father’s flock when Samuel went to anoint him to be the next king of Israel, 1 Samuel 16.11-12. The shepherd would lead the flock to pasture, to water, to safety. He was the one responsible for the well-being of the sheep. He protected them from wolves and other predators.
Jesus is the good shepherd. He knows his sheep by name. Each one that has become a part of his flock knows his voice. They follow him and receive abundant life, John 10.10.
Jesus laid down his life willingly so that you might have eternal salvation with God. Is he your shepherd?