"The LORD is my shepherd..." Ps. 23:1 "The LORD is thy keeper..." Ps. 121:5
I love having a cup of coffee with a friend, with whom I can talk, laugh, and encourage. Thank you for making the time for us today.
He gently calls my name. I know that voice. I've heard it many times, when there was danger or I was wandering off too far, or the when the "enemy" was close by. He says my name once again. I recognize the voice, that of my Shepherd. I know now I must stop what I am doing, listen, and follow his voice.
A shepherd cherishes the opportunity to care for his sheep. When you stop and think about the character of sheep, they need a shepherd. They have no sense of direction, no defense mechanisms, no sense of encroaching danger. They're dependent on their shepherd to lead them to green pastures and provide them protection from their enemies.
We have that Shepherd, the LORD-raah, your caring shepherd.
I am learning many things about my Shepherd. He knows me by name, is aware of what is going on in my life and all around me. It is His duty to protect me, but my duty to respond. It is in that protection that He leads, guides, and makes me aware of when I am making poor choices or trying to leave His protection. It is also in that protection that I sense His strong presence and am able to find rest, peace, and a sense of security.
When I think of His protection words such as "shield," "tower," and "refuge" come to mind. Each of these descriptions show our God protects us not only from physical harm or danger, but also protects our hearts and minds from sin, hurt, worry, distress, and attacks from the "enemy."
Through His rod and staff --- the Word --- He provides protection. We must take the time to read and study the Bible daily, so that we can know what the Lord wants to teach us and learn how to apply those lessons to our lives. He may have to use His rod to give correction when He sees that we are going our own way and not following His voice, but it's because He loves us and we belong to Him.
I love the verse in John 10:27,28 "My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me. And I give unto them eternal life; and they shall never perish, neither shall any man pluck them out of my hand." Oh, what wonderful assurance to know that we are under the protection of the Lord and are secure in His hand.
I have been blessed thinking on our third "P", Protector. May this encourage and bless you as your recognize, realize, and love being under His protection.
"The LORD shall preserve thy going out and thy coming in from this time forth, and even for evermore." Ps. 121:8
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