shepherd

A Sheep’s Journey Through Psalms -80

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A Gentle Journey Through Psalm 80: God’s Faithful Restoration

Dear friend, as we gather our hearts around the words of Psalm 80, let’s imagine ourselves sitting in a cozy room, perhaps with a warm cup of tea in hand, allowing the ancient cries of God’s people to resonate with our own souls. This beautiful psalm, likely penned during a time of national distress—maybe during the Assyrian invasions or another period of hardship—is a heartfelt prayer from Asaph, calling out to the Lord as the Shepherd of Israel. It’s a song of lament, yet woven through it is a thread of hope, reminding us that even in our lowest moments, God’s love pursues us relentlessly. Let’s walk through it together, verse by verse, and see how it speaks to our lives today.

The psalm opens with a tender invocation: “Give ear, O Shepherd of Israel, you who lead Joseph like a flock! You who are enthroned upon the cherubim, shine forth!” (verses 1-2). Oh, how comforting it is to picture God not as a distant ruler, but as a caring Shepherd, guiding His people with gentleness and strength. Here, the psalmist appeals to God’s covenant love, referencing Joseph and the tribes of Ephraim, Benjamin, and Manasseh—symbols of the northern kingdom. In our own lives, when trials loom large, we too can cry out to Jesus, the Good Shepherd (John 10:11), who leads us beside still waters and restores our souls. Isn’t it reassuring to know that He hears our pleas and longs to “shine forth” His presence, illuminating our darkness with His light?

As we move forward, the refrain echoes like a soothing chorus: “Restore us, O God; let your face shine, that we may be saved!” (verse 3, repeated in verses 7 and 19). This plea draws from the priestly blessing in Numbers 6:24-26, where God’s shining face brings peace and salvation. The psalmist acknowledges the people’s suffering—tears as their bread, mockery from enemies (verses 4-6)—yet turns to God in vulnerability. My friend, perhaps you’ve felt the sting of sorrow, where every day seems flavored with grief. In those times, this psalm invites us to pour out our hearts, trusting that God’s face, turned toward us in Christ, brings healing and renewal. He doesn’t scold us for our weakness; instead, He draws near with compassion.

Then comes the vivid metaphor of the vine in verses 8-13: “You brought a vine out of Egypt; you drove out the nations and planted it.” God is portrayed as a master gardener, tenderly transplanting Israel from bondage in Egypt, allowing it to flourish across the land. But now, the vine is broken down, ravaged by beasts and passersby. What a poignant image of how sin, enemies, or our own wanderings can leave us feeling uprooted and exposed! Yet, even here, the warmth of God’s original care shines through—He planted us with purpose, to bear fruit for His glory. As Christians, we see this fulfilled in Jesus, the true Vine (John 15:1-5), who invites us to abide in Him. When life feels like a vineyard trampled underfoot, remember: the Gardener hasn’t abandoned His work. He’s pruning and protecting, shaping us for greater growth.

The psalm intensifies in verses 14-17 with a desperate call: “Turn again, O God of hosts! Look down from heaven, and see; have regard for this vine… Let your hand be on the man of your right hand.” There’s a messianic whisper here, pointing to the “son” whom God has strengthened—ultimately, Christ, the Son at God’s right hand. The people promise faithfulness if God revives them, vowing not to turn away. How often do we make similar promises in our prayers? And yet, God’s grace meets us not because of our vows, but because of His unchanging love. He revives us through the Holy Spirit, breathing new life into weary hearts.

Finally, the psalm closes with that familiar refrain, now elevated: “Restore us, O Lord God of hosts! Let your face shine, that we may be saved!” (verse 19). It’s a crescendo of trust, affirming God’s power and our dependence on Him.

Beloved, Psalm 80 isn’t just a historical lament; it’s a mirror for our souls, reflecting God’s shepherding heart amid our struggles. Whether you’re facing personal trials, community brokenness, or spiritual dryness, let this psalm wrap around you like a warm embrace. God, who brought Israel through the wilderness, is the same One who shepherds us today. He shines His face upon us in Jesus, restoring what was lost and drawing us into His abundant life.

Let’s pause and pray: Heavenly Father, our gentle Shepherd, thank You for hearing our cries as You did for Your people long ago. Shine Your face upon us, restore our hearts, and help us abide in Your vine. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

A Sheep’s Journey Through Psalms -23

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A Devotional on Psalm 23: The Shepherd’s Path

Scripture Reading: Psalm 23 (KJV)
The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters. He restoreth my soul: he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name’s sake. Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me. Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies: thou anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over. Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the Lord for ever.

The Shepherd’s Faithful Care

Imagine a weary traveler, feet blistered from the rugged paths of life, stumbling through a barren wilderness. Dust clings to their clothes, and the weight of worry presses heavy on their heart. Then, in the distance, a gentle breeze carries the sound of flowing water, and a verdant valley unfolds—a place of lush green pastures, where still waters shimmer like glass under a golden sun. This is the vivid promise of Psalm 23, penned by David, a shepherd-king who knew both the perils of the wilderness and the tender care of the Good Shepherd.

The psalm begins with a bold declaration: “The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want.” Picture a flock of sheep, each one known by name, guided by a shepherd whose voice they trust implicitly. Early reformer John Calvin reflected on this verse, noting that David ascribes to God “the office of a shepherd, because He feeds His people with all that is necessary for their maintenance, and takes care of them with unceasing vigilance.” Calvin reminds us that God’s provision is not merely sufficient—it is abundant, meeting every need before we even voice it. In a world that tempts us to chase after fleeting wants, the Shepherd invites us to rest in His all-sufficient care.

“He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters.” Envision those green pastures—soft, endless fields where the grass sways gently, offering rest to the weary. The still waters are not turbulent rivers but calm pools, reflecting the sky’s serenity. Martin Luther, another pillar of the Reformation, saw in this imagery a picture of God’s grace: “The green pastures are the Word of God, the Holy Scriptures, which feed the soul… The still waters are the sweet and pure doctrine of the Gospel, which refreshes and comforts.” For Luther, the Scriptures are the pasture where our souls find nourishment, and the Gospel is the water that quenches our deepest thirst. When life feels chaotic, the Shepherd leads us to His Word, where we find peace that steadies the soul.

“He restoreth my soul: he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name’s sake.” The Hebrew word for “restore” suggests a returning, a bringing back to life. Imagine a lamb, weak and trembling, lifted gently by the Shepherd’s hands, its strength renewed. The paths of righteousness are not winding, treacherous trails but straight, well-trodden ways marked by the Shepherd’s footprints. Calvin emphasized that God leads us “not for our own merit, but for the glory of His name.” Our obedience is not about earning favor but reflecting the Shepherd’s holy character. When we stray, His gentle call draws us back, not for our glory, but for His.

“Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me.” Picture a dark, narrow valley, where shadows loom like specters and every step feels uncertain. Yet, the Shepherd walks beside, His rod ready to defend against predators, His staff poised to guide the wandering lamb. Luther wrote, “The rod and staff are the promises of God, which comfort us in affliction and drive away fear.” Even in the deepest trials—grief, loss, or uncertainty—the Shepherd’s presence is our anchor. His promises are not mere words but a fortress, shielding us from despair.

“Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies: thou anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over.” Imagine a banquet table, laden with rich food, set defiantly in a battlefield where enemies glower but cannot touch you. The Shepherd anoints your head with oil, a sign of blessing and honor, and your cup overflows with His goodness. Calvin saw this as God’s provision in adversity: “Though surrounded by enemies, we are safe under God’s protection, and He supplies us with all we need.” In Christ, we are not only protected but celebrated, our lives brimming with grace that spills over into eternity.

“Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the Lord for ever.” Picture goodness and mercy as faithful companions, trailing you like loyal hounds, never leaving your side. The house of the Lord is no temporary shelter but an eternal home, where the Shepherd Himself welcomes you. Luther marveled at this promise: “This is the hope of eternal life, where we shall be forever with Christ, our Shepherd.” The journey that began in green pastures ends in the Father’s house, where we will rest in His presence forever.

Reflection and Prayer
Dear Lord, our Good Shepherd, thank You for leading us through life’s valleys and pastures with unwavering care. When we are weary, guide us to Your Word, where our souls find rest. When shadows loom, remind us of Your presence, stronger than any fear. Fill our cups to overflowing with Your grace, and keep our eyes fixed on the eternal home You prepare for us. May we walk in Your paths of righteousness, for Your name’s sake, all our days. Amen.

Application
Today, take a moment to read Psalm 23 slowly, picturing each image as a promise from your Shepherd. Reflect on a current challenge—how might the Shepherd be leading you to rest, guiding you through it, or preparing a table of provision? Let the insights of the great Christian leaders of the past remind you to trust in God’s Word and promises, anchoring your heart in His faithful care.

Watching the Flock

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While attending a church service this week, the speaker made a very good point. His sermon was on being a good shepherd to the flock God has entrusted to us as pastors, just as He is a Good Shepherd to His flock. During the speaker’s message, he made this observation; while we are watching our flock, so are spiritual predators. We must be constantly vigilant in overseeing the safety of those God has entrusted to us. The shepherd has the responsibility for more than just feeding the sheep, he must also protect them. As King David fought off lions and bears that attacked his father’s sheep when he was just a shepherd boy, we, too must fight off those who would devour our Father’s  sheep.

It is our job to warn the sheep of danger. It is our job to point out theological errors they may encounter, dangerous cults, erroneous worldviews, and false teachers. We must point out these things because if we do not, our sheep will wander off and become mired in a quagmire of false doctrines that will render them useless to the Kingdom of God. Yes, we must feed our sheep solid food, great teaching from God’s Word. Yes, we must lead them to Christ, the Living Water so they can drink deep of His presence. We must also protect and defend them from dangers or we are not doing all our job requires of us. The staff has two ends – a crook to lift sheep to safety and a club to defend them with and drive off predators. Who is looking over your flock?

Jude Commentary and Study Guide Chapter 1

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Ta Ethne is proud to announce that the next chapter of our next book, Dominos, A Dynamic Commentary on the Epistle of Jude, is now available with study guide here on our site. Simply click on the Bible Study tab to the right or use the following link: https://taethne.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/dominoes-a-dynamic-commentary-on-jude-chapter-1-plus-study-guide.pdf

On Counseling

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It bothers me to hear from fellow pastors that they are not doing counseling, at least, no more than a session or two. It seems that they have bought into the philosophy that they are somehow not qualified to help people with their problems like a “professional” counselor is. This is dangerous thinking. A pastor usually has 4, sometimes 8 – 10 years of formal education in the word of God. Their very calling as a shepherd requires them to use Scripture to help people live productive lives that will be blessed by God. Is this not counseling? How can one justify sending a hurting, confused person that you are spiritually responsible for, from your flock, to an outside person? It is an abrogation of one’s responsibility.

Unless there is a medical problem that is suspected, there should not be a referral to an outside person, especially if the one being referred to isn’t even a Christian! Every problem has a sin component to it. It is the pastors job to help identify the problem. Without identifying the sin(s) contributing or causing a persons problem, remedy cannot be made. The pastor needs to lead them to confess and repent of said sin and make restitution where possible. The person must then be given godly habits to instill and accountability with their lifestyle so that there is not a relapse. This holds true for marriage counseling, family counseling, addictive behaviors, etc.

It is time for pastors to stop being lazy, stop buying into the lie that they are not capable of counseling, and get involved in the lives of their people. It is easy to preach, easy to lead meetings – it is hard work to actually shepherd a people and care for them. To say you don’t know how means you are admitting you don’t know how to take God’s Word and apply it to real life. You need to repent of your laziness and have the integrity to stop calling yourself a pastor or repent of your ignorance of how to use God’s Word and go and learn.

Do you care enough about your people to help them? Do you know enough to help them? Its time to stop playing church, stop playing leader and learn how to serve as God calls us to serve.