It’s Monday. Are you rip roarin’ and ready to go? Or, maybe you had a big weekend, and you are beginning the week a little tired. Either way, today’s verse offers consolation and comfort. If you are ready to get going with a big week, be encouraged because your heavenly Father is ready too!
Shepherds take care of their flocks. They feed them, lead them to water and protect them from predators. Metaphorically, that is what many of us need on Monday. God may lead you to the contact that waters your business for years. He steers you clear of the people and pathways which detract from your goals, and He feeds you the resources you need to move forward. He is your number one business partner.
Maybe, though, there are some who are tired, even weary today. It is for those, perhaps, that this verse speaks most loudly. I remember this song which we used to sing at church. When this verse is set to music, it takes on an even more comforting flavor.
We already saw that Yahweh is the good shepherd who tends His flock, but look at the care He shows His beloved. He is especially tender and nurturing to the least of us. The young of any species are always vulnerable, but no predator will devour His little ones for He scoops us up in His arms and carries us next to His heart. If you are weary, just imagine yourself not even having to walk. See yourself in the arms of the master being gently carried and coddled.
I also love how tenderly He cares for nursing ewes. He shows particular gentleness in helping them. In a flock of sheep, nursing mothers would be more vulnerable to predators as they care for and protect their young, but also in giving sustenance to their lambs, they can drain their own strength. So, our God is mindful of all who, for whatever reason, may be depleted in strength. In like manner, Jesus called all who are weary unto him, “Come to Me, all who are weary and heavy-laden, and I will give you rest,” (Matthew 11: 28). This shows us that the very nature of God is to care for those who are burdened and over-wrought, or who are simply tired.
We carry many images and ideas in our minds about God. If this picture of Yahweh as a nurturing, loving care giver isn’t in your picture library, consider painting it on the canvas of your heart. When you need a warrior, He is that, but when you need someone who will hold you and listen to your thoughts and fears, He is that loving, patient soul. He is gentle and tender hearted and He cares for you.