(MM)-Psalm 23 is a testament from King David. But who was David? He was the youngest son of Jesse, appointed by his father to be a shepherd while his brothers served in the military. God sent the prophet Samuel to Jesse’s house to find David so he could be anointed as the future king of Israel (1 Samuel 16:1-13). After being anointed, David was sent to King Saul to play music on his harp whenever an evil spirit troubled Saul. He later went on to defeat Goliath in one-on-one combat. Goliath was a giant soldier from the Philistine army, who spoke ill against God, prompting David to confront him when no one in the Israeli army had the courage to do so. Remarkably, David achieved this without any military background.
Before the fight, King Saul advised David against facing Goliath due to his lack of military experience. David responded, “There were times when I was taking care of my father’s sheep that wild animals came to take some sheep from the flock. Once there was a lion and another time, a bear. I chased the wild animal that jumped on me, caught it by the fur under its mouth, and killed it. I killed both a lion and a bear like that! And I will kill that foreigner, Goliath, just like them. Goliath will die because he made fun of the army of the living God. The Lord saved me from the lion and the bear. He will also save me from this Philistine” (1 Samuel 17:32-37).
Understanding how we can be related to David and Goliath's fight
Many of us are facing problems in this world that resemble our own Goliaths. David defeated his without military experience or the proper equipment typically used in battle because he trusted God and had experienced His goodness during times of trouble while tending to his father’s sheep. If we put our trust in God and reflect on His goodness, we too can defeat the Goliaths in our lives. If you feel you have not experienced His goodness, it may be because you have not looked deeply enough or have not placed your trust in Him.
The shepherd and sheep
In David's scenario, the shepherd represents God, and the sheep represent David. David is uniquely qualified to testify about the relationship between a shepherd and his sheep because he was a shepherd himself.
The Lord is My Shepherd, I Lack Nothing
A shepherd is someone who looks after sheep. The characteristics of a shepherd include:
1. Caring
Shepherds are concerned for the safety of their sheep and are willing to sacrifice their own comfort or life for their flock. In the same way, Jesus, concerned for our safety, willingly sacrificed His life for us (John 3:16). “The Lord is my shepherd, I lack nothing. He makes me lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside quiet waters, he refreshes my soul. He guides me along the right paths for his name’s sake” (Psalm 23:1-3). This shows His caring nature.
2. Knowledgeable
Shepherds are familiar with their sheep’s temperaments, strengths, weaknesses, and quirks. They can anticipate their needs and provide for them. Similarly, God has provided everything we need in this world to live accordingly; all we need to do is trust Him (Proverbs 2:6).
3. Protective
Shepherds watch for enemies and defend their sheep when necessary. They also search for and rescue lost or trapped sheep and tend to sick or wounded sheep. Whatever we are going through in life, God is never too far away. He will protect us from harm, and the devil cannot do anything against us under His protection. This is why David testified in Psalm 23 in the first place: “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).
4. Good Leaders
Shepherds lead the way and have a vision for the future. They are trustworthy and provide for their sheep. Throughout biblical history, we have seen God’s leadership, leading His people. His true followers are always pleased with His leadership. Psalm 23 is a great testimony to that: “Your rod and your staff, they comfort me” (Psalm 23:4). Many times, sheep may try to wander away from the pasture the shepherd has set for them. Whenever a sheep tries to stray, the shepherd uses his staff and rod to guide them back, ensuring they do not get lost. A lost sheep is vulnerable to wild animals. The Word of God serves as the staff and rod that guides us and brings us back when we are lost (Psalm 119:105)
5. Patient
Shepherding requires patience and endurance. In His patience, no matter how many times we stumble, God is still there to forgive us. No matter how many times we have wronged Him, His love remains constant (2 Peter 3:9).
Why Does a Sheep Need a Shepherd?
A sheep needs a shepherd for protection, guidance, and care because they are vulnerable and easily frightened animals. They cannot defend or protect themselves and depend on the shepherd for a quality life. The need for a shepherd is inevitable in a sheep's life.
We must all acknowledge that we are sheep and that God is our shepherd, just as David testified. The life of David was not easy; he faced many trials and tribulations, including sin when he committed adultery with Bathsheba and murder to cover up his sins (2 Samuel 11:1-27). He experienced anger, humiliation, and disappointment. Despite all these challenges, God allowed him to overcome them. It is no secret that God can do the same for you. All we must do is allow God to be our shepherd and be a sheep who depends on Him completely.
We thank God for granting us the wisdom to write this article. We pray that His words speak to our hearts and give us the ability to put them into practice.
Please share this article with someone you know who needs it. God will bless you for sharing His word.
Written by: Bedcy C. Previl
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