The Lord is my shepherd. . . .

— Psalm 23:1

There are many times when I have needed the help of a guide: an IT expert to help me with my computer; a nurse to help me understand a diagnosis; a biking guide to help me set the pace on unfamiliar roads. Some of these guides have been more helpful than others. A lot depended on how much they knew me and cared for me as a person.

When I reflect on how the Lord shepherds or guides us, I am struck by two important things. First, the one who has made us and knows us intimately is the one who invites us to follow him as our shepherd. He knows our names. He understands our strengths and weaknesses. He knows where we will find the journey challenging and where we will find joy. This gives us comfort and hope for the journey.

Second, the Lord knows and cares for all of his sheep—every one of us. While some of us will follow similar paths, they will not be exactly the same, and many of us will follow quite different paths. But each one of us can say, “The Lord is my shepherd. . . .” because he is leading each one of us, and we will lack nothing for the journey he takes us on through life. Everyone who follows the good shepherd can have the same confidence that they are being guided well by the one who loves them best.

In what ways does the Lord’s guidance help you?

Thank you, Lord, for being our guide. We pray that you will continue to make your will and way plain to us. Amen.