HE Leads Me Beside the Still Waters
JESUS my Lord and Savior - ©Anastasia Diamond
David’s 23rd Psalm reminds us that the Divine Shepherd’s rod and His staff will comfort us. Clearly – David makes a distinction between the two.
His ROD is for discipline, correction…and reformation.
I am comforted by His rod…which bestows caution, reproof…and gives me wisdom. His rod, which may often feel harsh – is to protect us from a greater harm.
His STAFF is for leadership, assistance…and direction toward His narrower road.
I am comforted by His staff…which bestows supervision, guidance…and redirects my path. His staff, which may often feel restrictive – is to keep us going in the right direction.
The Good Shepherd tenderly cares for His sheep.
He comes alongside – watches over, directs and disciplines His flock…in love. We, being good parents – are to shepherd, correct and guide our children…that they will choose the right path.
Is our heavenly Father any different? Indeed not. He has set the shepherding model through His rod and His staff.
Whether five years old, fifteen, thirty, sixty-five or eighty…we are often like rebellious little children in need of parental discipline and guidance. We are little sheep wandering about…in need of a shepherd’s rod and staff.
He is the Good Shepherd.
Jesus is the Good Shepherd who will correct, guide, and direct His sheep; that we will not wander too far from Him. That we will graze only where He allows. That we will drink only from His water source. That we will listen, and obey only His voice; that we will trust Him and follow only Him. That we will live a life of service to Him…and will remain in His flock forever.
Jesus is the Good Shepherd who sacrificed all for His flock…that none will stray. Not even one. Fear not little flock – trust in Him. Go where He leads. His rod and His staff will comfort you.
