God Is My Shepherd

In review of Matthew 2:6 it says, "‘But you, Bethlehem, in the land of Judah, are by no means least among the rulers of Judah; for out of you will come a ruler who will shepherd my people Israel.’” Matthew 2:6 NIV

Bottom Line:

From Bethlehem comes one who will be a shepherd to the People.

What this means to me:

Jesus had been foretold and and fulfilled what was written by prophets. He came to be my shepherd and to guide me as well as others.

This verse reminds me that Jesus is not only my shepherd and protector but also my leader. Just like a shepherd who both guards and leads his flock, day and night, Jesus desires to lead me.

The thing I most struggle with is letting God lead me step by step each day.  In order to do so, I must recognize when he speaks and to be willing to follow Him wherever He leads. In John 10:27 NIV, Jesus says, “My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me.”

In addition, while I may recognize His voice, I’m not sure I’m always willing to listen. I often let my life get to busy for me to hear when God is gently whispering instructions.

As I reflect, I think the things that keep from hearing the Lord are my own selfishness, wanting to do my own thing, letting temptation draw me in and just getting too occupied in myself and what I’m doing at the moment.

I’ll need to be open to what he is saying to me. I should complete it and then wait for his next set of instructions.

This morning I pray: “God, thank You for Your willingness to lead me on my journey through life. Forgive me for not taking the time to be still and listen for Your voice. I am so sorry that instead of asking You to guide my life step by step, I have only ask You to approve my own plans from time to time. Father, because You are worthy, I commit today to listen carefully and obey You immediately. Thank You for being a merciful Father. Today is going to be a good day as I follow Your leading! Amen in Your mighty name.”

“I love the Lord because he hears my voice and my prayer for mercy. Because he bends down to listen, I will pray as long as I have breath!” (Psalms 116:1-2, NLT)