“Your rod and Your staff, they comfort
me.” Psalm 23:4
This entire psalm should be viewed with a
picture in mind of a beautiful pasture, green
with flowing grass. In the midst of the field
a shepherd stands with staff in hand
watching over his flock. The caption below
this scene reads:
I am the Good Shepherd
John 10:10
In a box with precious items to remind me
of God’s provision is a two-inch square
bright yellow sticky note with an
encouraging word from my oldest son.
Another box is filled with cards and notes
from people who were touched by
something I said or did. In the same box are
files of promotions, projects, bible studies,
and other ministry related things God
allowed me to experience. They all remind
of God’s faithful presence, power, and
provision over many years of ministry.
This is what the psalmist has in mind about
the rod and staff of the Shepherd, memories
of His abiding times of protection and times
of direction. When King David was a young
shepherd boy watching his father’s sheep, he
fought off a lion and a bear with a rod. God
provided the strength and courage. Young
David recognized the presence of the Lord.
It was His provision that carried him
through threats to the sheep. He very wisely
gave God the glory!
Life brings many challenges. We are often
faced with a fork in the road forcing us to
decide. Which way should we go? Left, or
right? We cannot see what lies ahead for
either path. But from God’s perspective He
can see what difficulties lie ahead. It would
behoove us to seek His counsel. A simple
prayer, “which way Lord?” could make all
the difference. The staff reminds us of those
times God guided our path.
In another way the shepherd used the staff to
help the sheep. It was those times when they
got themselves into trouble. Sometimes
wandering away, getting lost or caught in a
thicket. Other times it was trouble they
created by being disobedient. Like sheep,
many of the problems we face are the result
of our own poor choices. The staff reminds
us of the many times our faithful Shepherd
stepped in to rescue us from ourselves. He
gave us a correcting direction. I hope we
were faithful to praise Him for His loving
care and guidance.
Take a few moments to contemplate the
forks in the road you met. How did the Lord
help you decide the correct path? Was it
circumstances? Advice from a trusted
friend? Peace through reading the Word?
The Holy Spirit’s counsel through prayer?
Praise Him again for His guiding light. And
for His times of correction, give Him praise.
Let His comfort lift you up… again!
Blessed by you….Bro. Sherman
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