Following Our Good Shepherd

7/10/24 – 07/16/24

Our Shepherd’s Protection

By Michael Youssef, Ph D.  07/16/24

When we are surrounded by attackers, we can find joy in the Lord because we have been anointed with the oil of the Holy Spirit. “You anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows” (Psalm 23:5). Only our Shepherd can provide us with this Spirit-filled, joyful life that empowers us when our enemies attack. The Bible tells us, “. . . the joy of the Lord is your strength” (Nehemiah 8:10).

We will never lack for anything because our Creator’s goodness and mercy will be our constant companions throughout life and for eternity. “Surely your goodness and love will follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever” (Psalm 23:6). This doesn’t mean that we are guaranteed financial wealth, perfect health, or a pain-free life. But our Shepherd knows the deepest needs of our souls, and He alone knows how to fill them.

Psalm 116:6-9 tells us,

The Lord protects the unwary;

when I was brought low, he saved me.

Return to your rest, my soul,

for the Lord has been good to you.

For you, Lord, have delivered me from death,

my eyes from tears,

my feet from stumbling,

that I may walk before the Lord

in the land of the living.

Whatever challenges you are facing today, trust in the Shepherd’s protection.

Prayer: Father, thank You for the joy and protection You offer. Thank You for knowing my deepest needs. I pray in the name of Jesus. Amen.

“But let all who take refuge in you be glad; let them ever sing for joy. Spread your protection over them, that those who love your name may rejoice in you” (Psalm 5:11).