July 8 - Psalm 23:1

July 8
Psalm 23:1

Dear Christian friends,

Over the next several days on Daily Devotions we will look at Psalm 23 - the whole chapter. It one that all Christians are aware of, many of whom have memorized it as a child. We often see this chapter listed in the back of obituary bulletins at funerals, giving comfort to the grieving, but do we really know what all this beautiful chapter of the Bible is telling us?

Let's look at the background of this chapter to see what King David meant when he wrote "the Psalm of David."

This chapter was probably written by David after he became king, reflecting back to the days when he was a shepherd boy watching over his father's flock of sheep. He recalled those days of how it was his responsibililty as shepherd to care for all of the sheep, and that each sheep was important to him. Having been a shepherd, he knew the responsibility of the shepherd, but as one who tended to the needs of the flock, he was also aware what each sheep needed even before trouble came to them. 

Let's do a quick look at what sheep are like:

• Sheep are vulnerable animals, trusting in whoever is leading them because sheep have no sense of direction. They are simple followers, including following someone right off a cliff. 
• Sheep are defenseless, unable to defend themselves. The only defense they have is to kick or run away, and hopefully in the right direction. They are continuous prey to wolves if they don't stick together.
• If a sheep turns over on its back with its legs flailing in the air, it cannot get up. It is completely helpless and "cast down,"vulnerable to any attack, and will die unless the shepherd lifts it back up.
• Sheep are very emotional, showing stress, being anxious.
• Sheep do have the instinct to easily recognized their shepherd's voice becoming very loyal to him. As such, they can detect strangers, and often run in fear.
• If wounded, a sheep cannot take of himself. It will die unless cared for.
• Sheep are not meant to carry burdens like other animals. The weight would crush them.
• Sheep are satisfied with momentary pleasure, settling for a muddy pool when clean water is just up ahead. As such, they become very stinky. They simply do not know what is good for them.
• Sheep were considered very valuable to the shepherd in Bible times. Only a wealthy man own large flocks because they propagate, provide meat, milk and wool.

In other words, the sheep will die unless they have a loving, caring shepherd to watch over them.