Him BookSample

READ Psalm 23:1-6.

THE LORD IS MY SHEPHERD. Psalm 23 is famous for its amazing truth! “LORD” which refers to the name of God as “YHWH” or “Jehovah” appears throughout the Old Testament, often in a compound form that highlights an aspect of God’s character. In Psalm 23, we see allusions to many of these titles of God. This focus on the character of God is a reminder of who He is and an invitation for us to trust Him. See the following adaptation from Warren Wiersbe:

Jehovah-Jireh - The LORD will provide (Genesis 22:14) … “I shall not want”

Jehovah-shalom - The LORD is our peace (Judges 6:24) … “still waters”

Jehovah-rophe - The LORD heals (Exodus 15:26) … “restores my soul”

Jehovah-tsidkenu - The LORD of our righteousness (Jeremiah 33:16) … “paths of righteousness”

Jehovah-shammah - The LORD is there (Ezekiel 48:35) … “You are with me”

Jehovah-nissi - The LORD is our banner (Exodus 17:15) … “prepare a table”

Jehovah-m’kaddesh - The LORD sanctifies (Leviticus 20:8) … “anoint my head with oil”

But not only does David reference these aspects of God, he says the LORD is MY shepherd. It’s personal. David has trusted in God and is following Him.

Jesus as the shepherd is referenced throughout the New Testament, including John 10:11, Hebrews 13:20, and 1 Peter 5:4. John 14:6 says, “Jesus said to him, ‘I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.’” Jesus invites us to come to Him, cast our anxieties upon Him, and walk with Him (Matthew 11:28-30). Jesus is inviting us by faith into His care, that He would be our shepherd and we would follow Him.

Who is your shepherd? Ask yourself…

• Whose way am I following in obedience? Who is ordering my days and steps?
• Who am I trusting for the truth? Who is helping me understand right from wrong? Truth from error?
• Whose opinion of my life matters most? Who do I listen to for my self-worth?
• Who cares for me? Who is looking out for me and providing for me?

Prayer: Lord, help me to follow You today. May You truly be my Shepherd, not just as a title but that I would follow you in obedience, listening to your voice, and leaning upon you. Amen.