Daily Devotionals

Daily Devotionals

Daily Devotional: Psalms 23:1-6

Ps 23:1-6

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. You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies; you anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows. Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life, and I shall dwell in the house of the Lord forever.

John 10:7-11

So Jesus again said to them, Truly, truly, I say to you, I am the door of the sheep. All who came before me are thieves and robbers, but the sheep did not listen to them. I am the door. If anyone enters by me, he will be saved and will go in and out and find pasture. The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy. I came that they may have life and have it abundantly. I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep.

Jesus is the good shepherd, he knows his sheep and they know him. His sheep recognize his voice and follow him. There are many false shepherds today and they are calling for all the sheep to follow them. They will not protect or provide for the sheep and this is what sets them apart from the real shepherd. Instead of being on our side, they are looking to steal, kill, and destroy.

The good shepherd will lead his sheep to luscious green pastures and make sure they have an abundance of still but fresh water to drink. When anything or anyone threatens his sheep, he will fight to the death to protect them. The staff he carries in his hand is used to protect his sheep from predators but also to rescue them when they need to be pulled from the places that are harmful.

As the sheep of Jesus, we never have to fear or be alarmed by our enemies. He will exalt us in their midst, as one who is seated at a banquet in a seat of honor. He gives us his blessings with his anointing so that we will have his mercies all of our life as we seek to serve him and live for him. Hallelujah! What a Savior!

I thank you O God for your goodness, your abundant love, and your generous mercy shown to me in so many ways. Thank you most of all for giving your Son to redeem me and then protect me until I reach that final glorious home with you. As I live on this earth, help me love you with all my heart and be willing to serve you with a genuine servant attitude. Be with those who have lost someone who is dear to them and give them your peace. I pray for greater faith for me and for all who are seeking to live for you as your children. I pray in Jesus’ name.

Robert