Psalm 23: Talking Sheep

“The LORD is my shepherd, I shall not be in want. He makes me lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside quiet waters, he restores my soul.” (Psalm 23:1-3)

Ever catch yourself singing a song that’s so familiar the words have almost lost their meaning? You might as well be singing “baaa, baaaa, baa, ba.” Psalm 23 is like that for a lot of people. They can say it perfectly, but they completely forget they’re quoting a sheep.

sheep_350David, a former shepherd, writes the poem as if he were a sheep bragging about his shepherd to the other sheep. It’s a funny idea to imagine, but that sheep makes some great points about how reliable our God is.

First, when He’s your shepherd, you will be provided for in every way. That’s a big deal to a sheep. They’re not so good at taking care of themselves. And this shepherd won’t just make sure you get fed. He’ll make sure you get enough sleep and rest and water; he takes care of your soul and your body.

Think: Have you ever imagined what it would be like to be a sheep? How does your Shepherd provide for your need for food, rest, water, and soul restoration? Do you count on Him for those things?

Pray: Thank God for being your shepherd and taking care of you in every way.

Do: Unless you know some sheep, find a picture of one in a book or online to keep in your head for the next few days as you think about Psalm 23.