Isaiah 33:2: O LORD, be gracious to us; we have waited for You. Be their strength every morning, our salvation also in the time of distress. (ESV)
God’s care for us is perfect. There is no way around it. The analogy of the Shepherd and His sheep is precise because, like the wandering, confused, indecisive animal, we need the loving care of an all-knowing guide.
This afternoon, my son and I visited a farm with sheep. We watched with interest as the shepherd prodded the animals along, feeding them, exercising them, protecting them from dangers they didn’t know existed. And though they never intended it, the sheep were a poignant reminder of who I am and Who God is.
Though there are many times we may think we know best the path our life should take, our Savior is painstakingly committed to what is right, even when what is right isn’t what we want.
God actively, daily, lovingly shepherds His people.
As Isaiah 33:2 indicates, the Lord is gracious to us. He is our strength every morning and our rescue in moments of misery. Because of these truths, we can rest in His presence, regardless of where the path takes us. We may be called to walk on thorny, messy, tricky paths, but our Savior walks with us.
“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” (Psalm 23:4 ESV).
It is not without significance that the trek through the valley of the shadow of death is walked—not run or rushed—and that comfort exists on the journey. Psalm 23 makes no mention of hysteria.
The Shepherd is there. And all is well.
Photo by AmandaRaeK
Amen. Good words for me this morning, Trisha.