"Therefore, Lord, we know you will protect the oppressed,
preserving them forever from this lying generation,
even though the wicked strut about,
and evil is praised throughout the land."
Psalm 12:7-8 (New Living Translation)

Dear shepherd leader, you possibly have been lied about or lied to. In these situations it is hard to feel like God is in control. This Psalm is for you. We see God's example of the three pivotal responsibilities of a shepherd leader: provision, protection, and presence. We are also told by David that the Lord's promises are pure (verse 6) and He will protect the oppressed.

First, be encouraged if you are being lied to or lied about by trusting in His pure promises. And second, be committed to lead well those who may not be truthful as you shepherd with provision, protection, and presence.

In this Psalm, David chooses to stay where he is instead of continuing to run. "But don’t they know, Lord, that I have made you my only hiding place? Don’t they know that I always trust in you?" Psalm 11:2b (The Passion Translation)

Today, dear Shepherd Leader, let us remember to take refuge in the Father. We can stop running from difficult situations and stand firm knowing...
"Yet the Eternal One is never shaken—
he is still found in his temple of holiness,
reigning as Lord and King over all.
He is closely watching everything that happens.
And with a glance, his eyes examine every heart.
For his heavenly rule will prevail over all.
Psalm 11:4 (The Passion Translation)

Psalm 10: The Cry of the Oppressed
The definition of lament is: "a passionate expression of grief or sorrow."

Verse 14 says, "Lord, I know you see all that they’re doing,
noting their each and every deed.
You know the trouble and turmoil they’ve caused.
Now punish them thoroughly for all that they’ve done!
The poor and helpless ones trust in you, Lord,
for you are famous for being the helper of the fatherless.
I know you won’t let them down."

Dear shepherd leader, both Psalms 9 and 10 show David's full and complete confidence in the Father. David knew that just because he couldn't see God working didn't mean He wasn't.

"The Lord is a shelter for the oppressed. A refuge in times of trouble."
As shepherd leaders, sometimes it feels like we have been abandoned in times of trouble. In those times let us sing praises to His name...the Lord Most High. He is our shelter and refuge. May our hearts be filled with joy knowing He does not abandon us nor forsake us. He never leaves us!

Psalm 8:3-4
"Look at the splendor of your skies,
your creative genius glowing in the heavens.
When I gaze at your moon and your stars,
mounted like jewels in their settings,
I know you are the fascinating artist who fashioned it all!
But when I look up and see
such wonder and workmanship above,
I have to ask you this question:
Compared to all this cosmic glory,
why would you bother with puny, mortal man
or be infatuated with Adam’s sons?"
(The Passion Translation)

As shepherd leaders let us remember His splendor and majesty!

Psalm 7:10
"God, your wrap-around presence is my protection and my defense. You bring victory to all who reach out for you." (The Passion Translation)

As shepherd leaders we can know the Father's presence is our protection and defense.

Psalm 6: David's confidence is in looking up to the Father. Knowing God will answer his prayer. He knows God is in control and his trust is only in Him.

As shepherd leaders we can know the Lord has heard our pleas. His provision, protection and presence is ever before us. May we never forget this.

Psalm 5
Psalms for Shepherds is a five-minute audible devotional developed for the purpose of providing encouragement to shepherd leaders.

Psalm 4
Psalms for Shepherds is a five-minute audible devotional developed for the purpose of providing encouragement to shepherd leaders.

Psalm 3
Psalms for Shepherds is a five-minute audible devotional developed for the purpose of providing encouragement to shepherd leaders.