Friday August 6, 2021

Today’s Reading: Psalm 100

Acknowledge that the Lord is God. He made us, and we are His – His people, the sheep of His pasture.

Psalm 100:3

Reflection: The LORD designed us to be His own people. He created us to live closely with Him, to love and be loved by Him fully. He did not form us from the earth all the while wondering, ‘I wonder what will become of these creatures, what purpose they will create for themselves.’ No, God made us to be in relationship with Him.

As the sheep of the Good Shepherd, we have been created to trust in Him completely. We are only the crown of His creation because we were made in His image. We have been formed to depend on His total care for us. In His flock, we never want for any good thing. We remain satisfied by his leading us through verdant pastures and still waters. We rest at His side daily, content to be fully refreshed and restored. Even in the darkest valley, there is nothing to fear. Since our Good Shepherd guards us, we need not ever be afraid. His refuge and strength surround us, ensuring our safety. In the face of our enemies, the LORD continues to bless us exceedingly and abundantly, equipping us with a testimony of His everlasting goodness and mercy. Yes, to dwell with God our Good Shepherd is an eternal joy and blessed gift.

Praise the Name of the LORD our Shepherd. Though He is also our King, He has chosen to come near to care for us by His own mighty Hand. He is good to bless us faithfully and ensure our every need is met. How wonderful it is to know His everlasting love.

Prayer: O LORD, my Good Shepherd, I praise Your holy Name. All that I have known that is truly good comes from Your generous Hand. All that I witness around me throughout creation gives You glory. All blessings that I have received come from You. Thank You for all this, LORD, but most of all for a relationship that You have granted us to share. Thank You for loving me, and for drawing near so that I would know and love You. Though I am in Your flock LORD, I confess that I often go astray. Please help me to be increasingly surrendered to Your leading. Help me to trust in You fully, that I would know the richness of blessed closeness with You. I pray all of these things in the Name of Jesus my Lord, AMEN.

Bible-in-a-Year Reading Plan (credit: Bible, studytools.com): Revelation 5; Nehemiah 7:5-8:12; Psalm 100