Thursday - October 23, 2008

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Psalm 23



The LORD is my shepherd, I shall not be in want.

He makes me lie down in green pastures,
he leads me beside quiet waters,

he restores my soul.
He guides me in paths of righteousness
for his name's sake.

Even though I walk
through the valley of the shadow of death,
I will fear no evil,
for you are with me;
your rod and your staff,
they comfort me.

You prepare a table before me
in the presence of my enemies.
You anoint my head with oil;
my cup overflows.

Surely goodness and love will follow me
all the days of my life,
and I will dwell in the house of the LORD
forever.


(NIV)
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The Leading of the Sheep

by
Tim Trumper


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He leads me in the paths of righteousness for His name's sake. (Psalm
23:3b NKJV)

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The paths in which the Lord leads us are paths of uprightness. This
simple truth helps us discern whether we're on the right path. We ask
ourselves not whether our path is uphill or downhill, or whether we
are passing through sunshine or cloud, pleasant scenery or back
streets, but whether the path we are on is leading us to do what
pleases the Lord. If so, we not only know the path is the right one,
we also know it is the Good Shepherd who is leading us. Sheep, it is
worth remembering, only walk in a straight line when they are being
led.


Following our Lord is not only our privilege, it is also our
responsibility. The Lord expects us to follow him. It's for our good
that we do so. When David thinks of the Lord's leading, he's not
imagining sheep meandering far behind. Sheep who keep pace with the
shepherd are safest, for the closer we stick on his heels, the more
protection we gain from the dangers around us.



"O let me see thy footmarks, and in them plant mine own
My hope to follow duly is in thy strength alone.
O guide me, call me, draw me, uphold me to the end;
And then in heaven receive me, my Savior and my Friend." (John Bode)