“O come, let us worship and bow down: let us kneel before the LORD our Maker. For He is our God; and we are the people of His pasture, and the sheep of His hand” (Psalm 95:6-7).

I shared with you yesterday about Nancy’s struggles and her disappointment with the way that she was treated by other believers. In a wonderful way the day would come when she would move next door to Wayne and Shelley who raised sheep. One afternoon as they ate lunch with Nancy, Shelley said to her, “I know that you have not been treated very kindly by those who should have been the most compassionate with you. It’s so important, Nancy,” she continued not knowing exactly how to phrase her words, “it’s so important that we keep our eyes on the Lord. He is our Shepherd and knows us intimately. He knows what we need.” Wayne picked up the conversation by adding, “I know that other believers should encourage and help others. But I want to show you something, Nancy. I see you have finished your lunch. Shelley and I are going to take you to the pasture just behind the big red barn over there.” It was an object lesson that Nancy would never forget. She and Shelley stood quietly watching as Wayne walked among the sheep. Quietly he spoke to them and started walking. Instantly they followed him around the pasture. Circling back around, about ten minutes later Wayne rejoined Shelley and Nancy. He said, “Nancy, you saw the sheep following me. They knew me. They knew my voice. They trusted me. It’s the same with the Lord. We worship the One Who by faith we know, love and trust.” What a powerful illustration for Nancy and us.

For today: Aren’t you glad that you know the Lord? Aren’t you glad that He is your Shepherd?