The One Who Leads

 

The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want. He makes me lie down in green pastures. He leads me beside still waters. He restores my soul. He leads 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. (Psalm 23:1-4 ESV).

 

Today I want to bring your attention to one of the most beloved of the Psalms. Our reading was written by David when he was running from the death threats of Saul. If ever there was a time when He needed someone to lead and protect him this was such a time. As I read these verses again I was reminded of another passage when Jesus called himself the good shepherd who sacrifices his own life in order to save his lost sheep:

 

[Jesus said] “I am the good shepherd. I know my own and my own know me, just as the Father knows me and I know the Father; and I lay down my life for the sheep.” (John 10:14-15 ESV).

 

I have heard many stories through the years from those who felt as if their history was so bad they had no hope. Often they despaired to the point that they wanted to forfeit their lives. I remember one young lady in particular who recounted her early teens when she had become involved in drugs and been driven to a life of promiscuity, ultimately becoming pregnant and having an abortion. Her words echo still in my recollection: “How can I ever be forgiven? I’m a murderer of the innocent.” After taking her to several passages of Scripture to read we ended up with the one above. I asked her, “Aren’t you ready to have someone like that; someone who is willing to lay down His life to protect and lead you?” With a flood of tears, sobbing, she whispered, “Yes.” I have stayed in touch with her through the years. She is married to a kind, godly man, and they have three wonderful children. She found the One who leads!

 

That’s the power of God’s love! It doesn’t matter how bad or hopeless your circumstances are, there’s always hope. The good shepherd has already died for you, and he has risen from the dead! He is looking for you. He wants to give you a full life and fill your heart with thanksgiving. Make this season the time when you discover Him!