Arguably, Psalm 23 will compete favourably with Psalm 100 as one of the most recited Psalm. In it, David painted the portrait of God as a shepherd. Beyond seeing God as a shepherd, he went ahead to personalise it – “The Lord is my shepherd,” he said. I believe we all have a lot to benefit if we develop this personal connection with God as a shepherd. Most people begin new year with freshness of spirit and a heart full of hopes. But as the year progresses they become tired. People typically wear themselves out in search of one thing or another. Our weariness comes from one singular reason: we do not sufficiently factor God into the pursuits of our life. When our ingenuity and connections fail to deliver desired results, the soul becomes lean and frustrated.

The Shepherd knows what we are looking for, and He knows exactly where we can get them. Following His lead will save us from fruitless labours.

With different qualifications, Jesus is described as Shepherd. He describes Himself as the good Shepherd (John 10:11,14). The author of the book of Hebrews describes Him as the great Shepherd (Hebrews 13:20). Apostle Peter says He is the Chief Shepherd (1Peter 5:4). The focal scripture today captures two things that we stand to gain if we subscribe to the Lord as our Shepherd. First, there will be salvation in all ramifications. Second, we will find pastures. The Shepherd knows what we are looking for, and He knows exactly where we can get them. Following His lead will save us from fruitless labours.