Victory247

“Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil, for You are with me; Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me.”  Psalm 23:4 (NIV)

The shepherd had a really tough job back in those days. He had to lead his sheep, and protect his sheep. This was all day, out in the hot sun. Also interesting to note is that sheep are very dumb animals who truly can’t make it on their own. He’s not calling us dumb, but compared to Him, we are.

I can imagine the conversation with the rebellious, self sufficient sheep; “Listen Mr. Shepherd, I can take care of myself from those lighting fast wolves with sharp teeth. And if I get stuck in a tough situation, I will use my slow, uncoordinated, awkward body to escape.”…”Well Mr. Sheep, I will take care of you and help meet all your needs.” “Okay Mr. Shepherd, that’s not a baaaad idea.”

The main tool the shepherd had was the staff. It had a hook on one end, and a sharp point on the other. The hook was useful to pull the dumb sheep out of holes, bushes, or other messes they would get themselves into. The pointed end was to protect and fend off attacks from predators like wolves.

God uses His staff in our lives. His hook is there to pull us out of messes we get ourselves into, or situations that seem impossible to overcome. Also, we can call on Him to protect us, with the sharp end of the staff, from a world of people who want to take advantage of us.

PRAYER FOR TODAY

Heavenly Father, like the sheep to the shepherd, help me to be dependent on You to guide, protect, and watch over me. Lead me to green pastures (Psalm 23:2). In Jesus’ Name. Amen.