Walking in the Shepherd’s Favor

After years of taking care of his father’s sheep, David knew a lot about the relationship of a shepherd with his sheep. Sheep that had a good shepherd were happy and well cared for, but neglected sheep were sickly and prone to find themselves in danger.

With this background, David begins his most famous psalm, “The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want” (Psalm 23:1). Just as a faithful, benevolent shepherd provides for the needs of his sheep, the Lord gives provision and protection to His people as they follow Him.

As you read this psalm, recognize that it is all about the favor of God. Each line is a powerful statement of how the Lord wants to care for you today.

Take a brief inventory of your life, and ascertain what you need from God right now. He offers to be your Good Shepherd, giving you the abundant life Jesus also described in John 10:1-10.

Instead of barren fields, He wants to provide you with green pastures and restful waters (v. 2). When you’ve been battered and bruised by the traumas of life, He will restore your soul (v. 3). When you’re feeling confused and in need of direction, He offers to lead you “in the paths of righteousness” (v. 3).

Even when you have God’s favor, you may walk through dark valleys at times. But there’s no need to fear! Your faithful Shepherd walks with you, and His rod and staff will protect you from harm (v. 4).

He will even shower you with favor and honor in the presence of your enemies. No longer will you live in the land of “Never Enough” or “Barely Enough,” but your cup will overflow with blessings: “More Than Enough” (v. 5).

Instead of being harassed by constant hardships, you will be able to confidently say along with David: “Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life” (v. 6). Pause a moment and read these words again. Your Good Shepherd wants you to be SURE of His favor. He wants you to be absolutely convinced that He loves you and wants to shower you with His abundant “goodness and mercy.”

Notice that David didn’t see the Lord’s favor as just a one-time event. He said it was something he could count on “all the days of my life.” Better still, the favor would last “forever,” even into eternity: “I will dwell in the house of the LORD forever” (v. 6).

Draw near to your Good Shepherd today. He wants you and your loved ones to walk in His favor today, and He is preparing a place for you to enjoy His favor for all eternity (John 14:2).