Christian Sermons from Calvary Chapel Greenmeadow, North Kingstown, RI

The rod and staff of our faithful shepherd bring us comfort. The rod is used both to fight-off enemies and to correct us when we are wrong. The staff is a sign of support and also provides guidance to wayward sheep. Likewise we should comfort others.

Job demonstrated integrity by staying true to God in the midst of suffering. Men of integrity have character, because they know they belong to God, certainty because they know God is in control, and confidence because they know God is the judge.

Although the world does not want to hear about Jesus, it is drawn to the idea of sacrificing oneself for another. We call those that risk their lives for us "heroes," but Jesus did more than that. He intentionally died for us. So should we die to self.

Sometimes we ask, "If the Lord is with me, how did I end up in this mess?" Often it is because we did not listen to Him, but there are times when He will use the mess to bring about something good. There is a greater power with us than with the enemy.

Things have not changed much since the psalm was written; we all still need to be restored and led to places of peace. His leading will sometimes make us feel unsure and may even bring us through places that are dark, but they always exit into light.

It is interesting to note that the Shepherd’s Psalm comes just after the Psalm of the Cross. The cross was necessary for Jesus to be able to deliver us from evil. We get the benefit of a peaceful, content life when we want only what He provides us.

False teachers come as heretics, charlatans, and false prophets, but all come to steal, kill and destroy. Jesus comes to give us life--not just the afterlife, but abundant life here and now. Knowing Father and Son is the key to this plentiful life.

When we recognize our weaknesses and our need for a shepherd, it is comforting to know that Jesus protects us and calls us when we stray. Nothing compares to hearing His voice in our hearts. Do we still listen for the voice of the shepherd?

There are none so blind as those who will not see. We can be blinded by our own knowledge and pride, thinking that we can see well. Those who admit they are blind, call out to God who gives them sight. Being humble is the first step being able to see.

We can sometimes be like the Pharisees, wanting God to work in accordance with our understanding, but God has higher ways. We need not understand them, but we must give our testimony, telling others what we KNOW God has done for us.