A shepherd is a person who tends and rears sheep. Globally, a notable function of every shepherd is the pastoral care he gives to the animals. He nurtures both young and old sheep by giving them adequate food, water, shelter and responds to their needs. Similarly, a shepherd is a cleric who provides spiritual care and guidance for a congregation. Thus, the act of shepherding involves giving guidance, direction, focus, etc. to animals, and by spiritual extension- human beings.
*“Now the God of peace, that brought again from the dead our Lord Jesus, that great shepherd of the sheep, through the blood of the everlasting covenant …”* (Heb. 13:20-21). Jesus Christ is the great shepherd whose earthly ministry entailed comforting, teaching, healing, delivering and caring for different categories of people. A good shepherd will always seek after the wellbeing of the sheep. He goes the extra mile, to ensure the needs of His sheep are met from time to time. Little wonder, the Master Himself said *“I am the good shepherd: the good shepherd giveth his life for the sheep”* (Jn. 10:11). He places high premium on the worth and lives of His sheep, to the point of even dying for them. No other shepherd can lay down his life for the sake of his sheep! In Psalms 23, king David declared the Lord as his shepherd, and he listed the numerous benefits he enjoyed in his relationship with Him. In fact, David is the best to talk about the roles of a shepherd because, that was his profession. I will be sharing some of these benefits enjoyed by David. The Psalmist never lacked provision in any area of his life, as he was always getting supply from his shepherd. Divine provision does not know any restriction; come rain or shine, the supply always comes. It’s neither a subsidy nor palliative that is unreliable. As a good shepherd, Jesus Christ supplies the needs of His children. He will supply your needs too, if you can become His sheep and make Him your shepherd. It is interesting to know that God’s provision is complete, as it covers every area of your need. Jehovah Jireh- God our provider, is the source of everything you may need in life. *“He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters”* (Ps. 23:2).
Beloved, the great and good shepherd beckons on you to give yourself unto Him. He wants to have you in His flock, so that He can care for you. *“Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest”* (Matt. 11:28). He has made provision for your rest. (To be contd.) *SHALOM*
