Do you know what you want to be when you grow up? Maybe you want to be a firefighter or a police officer? Possibly a teacher or a nurse? What about a baker or a professional athlete? 

How would you feel about putting all of these dreams aside to be a shepherd? That’s right, a shepherd – someone who tends to sheep! Shepherds spend day and night outdoors guarding and caring for a bunch of animals making sure they have food, water, and a safe place to rest. Does that sound fun to you? Or does that sound like a lot of hard work that could be scary at times? 

In Psalm 23, we hear from David, a man who ended up becoming King. Before he became king, David spent many years leading a flock of sheep. David provided them with food and water, and he took care of them when they were tired, bruised, or sick. David knew each sheep by name and loved them. 

In Psalm 23:1-3, David says that the LORD is his shepherd. As a family, take some time reading and reflecting on these verses of Scripture. 

Psalm 23:1-3 Questions to Consider //

• Why do you think the LORD makes His flock lie down in green pastures?
• What else does the LORD do for those who Him?
• In what ways is the LORD your shepherd? How does He lead you?
• What are some things you need to trust Jesus with? 

Creating a Rhythm of Sabbath Moments //

Just as David was the shepherd to a flock of sheep, he knew that Jesus was his shepherd. David knew that just as he cared for his sheep, Jesus would love and care for him. In Jesus, David not only found safety and security but also found rest. 

The LORD knew that David needed physical rest, but more importantly, God knew David needed rest for his soul. David needed to recognize the importance of quieting himself before the Almighty and reminding his soul to trust in the LORD. 

Continuing the Conversation // 

As a family, discuss areas of your lives that have been hard to trust the LORD in. Spend time in prayer, asking God to give you the strength to lie down in His green pastures, trusting and gaining rest in Him.