We feel anxiety because of fear. We fear something bad might happen and we become anxious and fearful.
In Psalm 23, David, who was a shepherd as a young man, describes sheep and how the care and guidance of the shepherd keeps them sheep calm.
Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me. Your rod and your staff, they comfort me.
Psalm 23:4
David uses his experience as a shepherd to let us see our relationship with God the father.
Did you know that sheep are anxious animals? They are easily spooked and frightened. One of the main things a shepherd does is guide the sheep to calm places and watches over them and protects them from predator animals.
Psalm 23 starts with by saying “the Lord is my shepherd.” David acknowledges that God is watching over and caring for us just a shepherd guides and cares for his sheep. In the New Testament, Jesus also describes God as shepherd.
What does the shepherd do for his sheep?
He meets their needs. Psalm 23:1 says “the Lord is my shepherd, I shall not want.” God cares for you and knows all you need.
He also brings the sheep to green pastures and still water (sheep need calm, still water because they are easily spooked by the movement).
He stays with his sheep and protects them. Psalm 23:4 says God stays with us, protects and comforts us. The rod and staff were used to guide the sheep and protect them from predators.
In verse 5, it says he prepares a feast for us and celebrates good with us.
He blesses his sheep. He brings goodness and mercy to our lives.
When you feel anxiety, claim the promise of this verse. Remember, God cares for us a shepherd caring for this sheep. The shepherd is deeply concerned about the needs of this sheep and protecting them as God does for you.
