In Need of a Shepherd
“I am the good shepherd. I know my own, and my own know me, just as the Father knows me, and I know the Father. I lay down my life for the sheep.” John 10-14-15
In the spring of this year, Danette, Colin, and I traveled to London and Paris for spring break. While we were in England, we visited Stonehenge in Wiltshire, approximately 90 miles southwest of the city of London. Stonehenge is a prehistoric monument situated in the English countryside. Surrounding the monument were large green pastures full of sheep! Some of these thick, woolly sheep would literally come close to visitors at the monument. I had never been this close to a sheep, so I took some time to observe, take pictures, and even film these curious creatures.
Based on my observations and subsequent research, I have discovered the following about sheep. They have a strong instinct to flock together, which is especially important since they are fearful and timid prey animals with few defenses against predators. Sheep have no sense of direction. They will follow whoever is leading them. If a sheep turns over on its back with legs flailing in the air, this position is referred to as cast down, and it cannot get up unless someone helps it. They know the voice of their shepherd and are emotional, loyal creatures. They cannot care for themselves and can be pretty stubborn. Do you find any similarities between these characteristics and yourself?
Sheep need a shepherd. The shepherd leads and guides his sheep. He knows them individually and the condition of his flock. He protects his sheep, rescuing them when they stray. He makes the pasture a safe place, keeping them from danger. The shepherd meets the sheep’s needs, leading with genuine care and correcting them as needed.
Like sheep, we need a shepherd. Take a moment to read through Psalm 23.
1The Lord is my shepherd; I have what I need.
2 He lets me lie down in green pastures; he leads me beside quiet waters.
3 He renews my life; he leads me along the right paths for his name’s sake.
4 Even when I go through the darkest valley, I fear no danger, for you are with me; your rod and your staff—they comfort me.
5 You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies; you anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows.
6 Only goodness and faithful love will pursue me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the Lord as long as I live.
Perhaps you have heard Psalm 23 read at a funeral. That is a common place for it to be shared. But, the words of this poem extend to all aspects of life, offering hope and solace not just in death but in life’s daily triumphs and challenges.
These verses reveal that God is our loving, Good Shepherd. He knows His followers with a profoundly personal connection. He provides for all of their needs and cares for them deeply. He leads and protects them, going before them. He comforts and restores them. He remains present through every step of life and blesses them.
As His followers, we have a part to play in this. We are to be in relationship with Him so we know His voice. We are to trust Him and follow His lead. We must depend on Him. As He pursues us, we are to run to Him and not away. When we do, we will dwell in His house forever!
May you lack nothing, fear nothing, and follow Him faithfully. May His goodness and mercy go with you, and may you dwell in His presence—today and always.
Call to Action
Which word listed below would you use to describe your current relationship with the Lord?
distant non-existent personal close stagnant growing active other____________
Do you genuinely believe that God is enough for you? Why or why not?
How are you relying on your own direction instead of allowing God to lead?
How does knowing that God is ever-present help you face your current situation?
Where do you need His correction or comfort?
How have you experienced His protection and provision?
Digging Deeper
Read John 10:1-18 and note the ways that Jesus refers to Himself. Underline verse 10 in your Bible. This verse tells us that Jesus came to give us abundant life! What in your life is not “abundant?”
Take time to rewrite Psalm 23 from your context, in your own words.
Prayer
Lord, thank you for being all that I need and for never leaving my side. Guide me along right paths. Help me to trust You and not be afraid. When I stray, pull me back to You. In the ups and downs of life, help me to find comfort in You.
Copyright © 2025 Kyle Cravens
