Leaning on the Good Shepherd

On my bed I remember you; I think of you through the watches of the night.  Because you are my help, I sing in the shadow of your wings.  I cling to you; your right hand upholds me.

~Psalm 63:6-8 NIV

Many of us greeted this morning with concerns, fears, or confusion. Distractions caused us to lose sight of the Good Shepherd, and we became confused, frightened, and lost. We all, like sheep, have gone astray (Isaiah 53:6). But when we cry out, our anxious bleats meet the attentive ears of the One whose rod and staff comfort us.

Here’s a prayer we can say when we need the Good Shepherd to come to our rescue:

A Prayer to the Good Shepherd

Lord Jesus, You are my Good Shepherd. You laid down Your life for Your sheep. I need wisdom for the decisions ahead. The voices surrounding me may say to go this way or that, but there is One voice I long to hear above all others—Yours. 

Your Word reminds me, “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God” (Philippians 4:6 NIV).

I praise You that I am not a sheep without a Shepherd. I love You because, in Your incomprehensible mercy, You loved me first (1 John 4:19).

When lions roar, help me to run to You and be safe (Psalm 34:10). Feed me by Your hand (Psalm 95:7) and make me lie down in green pastures. Refresh me beside still waters (Psalm 23). Give me rest from weariness and satisfy my thirst with Your living water (John 4:14).

With gentleness, minister to my wounds. Calm my heart with Your voice and reassuring presence.

The path ahead of me is well-worn. You have come this way many times before. You know every curve, where to step, and when to rest. Your confidence brings me peace.

Guide me, Your little lamb. Close gates that lead astray; open those that lead me home. And lead me in the way everlasting (Psalm 139:24).

Amen.

What are some ways you can learn to depend on the Good Shepherd? 

Genre: Non-fiction

Copyright 2024: The Good Shepherd: Julie Souza Bradley Lilly: All Rights Reserved