Scripture Reading — Psalm 23:4Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil, for you are with me. . . .— Psalm 23:4As we noted earlier (July 4), Psalm 23 is attributed to King David. In this part of the psalm, David may be recalling not only his own shepherding days but also tim

Scripture Reading — Psalm 23:3He guides me along the right paths for his name’s sake.— Psalm 23:3While sheep are not marked in the same way as cattle, they do bear the mark of their owner along with other helpful information that identifies them.The Lord’s sheep also carry the name of their shepherd

Scripture Reading — Psalm 23:3He guides me along the right paths. . . .— Psalm 23:3The shepherd’s main goal for his sheep is soul care. Our souls suffer when we are running quickly and taking life at a pace that is unsustainable. When we try to chart our own course, we often misjudge the best way fo

Scripture Reading — Psalm 23:3He refreshes my soul.— Psalm 23:3There is good profit for the shepherd who takes good care of his sheep. Good care means it is less likely for the sheep to suffer disease or exhaustion. Good care means the sheep will more likely fetch a good price at the market.But that

Scripture Reading — Psalm 23:2-3He leads me beside quiet waters.— Psalm 23:2Water bottles are everywhere these days. Most of us know that our bodies need water and that dehydration can have devastating consequences.A good shepherd knows that the dry air and relentless sun in a desert climate can dry

Scripture Reading — Psalm 23:2-3He makes me lie down in green pastures. . . .— Psalm 23:2It is a busy season as I write this short devotional message. My list of responsibilities has increased lately, and I have less open time than I would like.Sheep have a difficult time pacing themselves as well.

Scripture Reading — Philippians 4:12-13I have learned the secret of being content in . . . every situation . . . whether living in plenty or in want. I can do all this through him who gives me strength.— Philippians 4:12-13The apostle Paul was someone who followed the Lord as his shepherd through da