The Lord is my Shepherd.
When we read the familiar phrase, “The Lord is my Shepherd,” do we know where the words originally came from? More importantly, do we have a proper biblical understanding regarding the meaning of the words? What does it mean when a person declares, ‘The Lord is my Shepherd?” What does it reveal about the Lord and how He feels about us, His children?
Other than the Bible
Several books and their authors have had an enormous impact on my spiritual development and understanding of the scriptures. As I continue writing commentaries and articles on the biblical text, with a prophetic focus, I will also share with you some of the books and the authors who have impacted my life.
Of course, the Bible by a wide margin is the book I’ve read more often than any of the others. Its original author, God, is my favorite author. But the other books and authors provide important input from wise counselors and experienced individuals who have gleaned important insights into the scriptures and how to live out the truth of God in a practical manner.
First I’ll share the words of Phillip Keller found in his tremendous book, “A Shepherd looks at Psalm 23.”
I strongly recommend this book. If you haven’t read it, you should. Your understanding of the Lord’s great love for you will increase.
The following is an excerpt from chapter one.
The Lord as My Shepherd
“The Lord! But who is the Lord? What is his character? Does He have adequate credentials to be my Shepherd – my manager – my owner?
And if He does – how do I come under His control? In what way do I become the object of his concern and diligent care?
These are penetrating, searching questions and they deserve honest and basic examination.
One of the calamities of Christianity is our tendency to talk in ambiguous generalities.
David, the author of the poem, himself a shepherd, and the son of a shepherd, later to be known as the “Shepherd King” of Israel, stated explicitly, “The Lord is my Shepherd.” To whom did he refer?
He referred to Jehovah, the Lord God of Israel.
His statement was confirmed by Jesus Christ. When he was God incarnate amongst men, He declared emphatically, “I am the Good Shepherd.”
But who was this Christ?
Our view of Him is often too small – too cramped – too provincial – too human. And because it is we feel unwilling to allow Him to have authority or control – much less outright ownership of our lives.
He it was who was directly responsible for the creation of all things both natural and supernatural (see Colossians 1:15=20)
If we pause to reflect on the person of Christ – on His power and upon His achievements – suddenly like David we will be glad to state proudly, “The Lord – He is my shepherd!”
Related Content
A Little More Please. A Shepherd Looks at Psalm 23 Are you Content?
Kingdom Parables: Treasure God’s Word
Psalm One: The Godly Man Walks but What of the Ungodly?
The Lord is my Shepherd. Is He yours? Take a walk on the Roman Road to find out.
“The blood ran down the wall and painted the concrete red.”
In this fictional story, a modern-day Samuel is thrust into the growing chaos of a world that has turned its back on God.
Will it change him enough? see here.
Let me know what you think.