Shadow

Shadow

Use the very familiar Psalm 23 in comparison with the birth of Jesus Christ.  We all go through times that are difficult.  Times when we wonder if anyone understands our pain or heartache.  It’s those times when God wants so badly for us to depend more on Him.

Key is the relationship.  No relationship, no benefit.

Psalm 23

   -Psalm by David-shepherd became king

   -never intent of doing anything but what the Lord leads

   -many psalms are complaints, but here blessings!!

   -David recognized God as His Jehovah Rohi-Shepherd

Benefits From The Shepherd:

1.      Nourishment

2.      Restoration

3.      Guidance

4.      Protection

   -v.4-even though = it is going to happen, so be ready

   -I walk through = personal journey that keeps on moving    

     -not necessarily a struggle, but a difficult time

   -valley of shadow of death = valley is place betw. Mts.

     -shadow is not total darkness, but absence of some light

     -death is a separation of some kind

   -David is not dying, but feels like he could

   -I fear no evil = he has a confidence

   -Thou art with me = notices God but doesn’t remove him

   -rod & staff bring comfort = ease the grief or trouble

     -comfort also provides strength & hope

     -rod = straight stick used for correction every time

     -staff = curved stick to bring closer or help walking

God as a shepherd provides protection, but not dismissal of crisis or pain or sorrow or troubles.  He will walk with us through it, if we will allow Him to shepherd.  Jesus came to earth in a manger—place where sheep sleep as example to us.  He went through more hardships than you and I will ever know.  God didn’t remove Him but walked with Him.  Will we let God shepherd us through all of our challenges, troubles, grief, and even the holidays?