No dad on earth is perfect. Only God is a perfect Father and a perfect Shepherd. He fills the gaps every earthly father leaves with qualities such as King David describes in the 23rd Psalm.
My dad is not perfect, but I thank the Lord for blessing me with a father who continually adjusts his heart, thoughts, and actions to align himself with the qualities of The Good Shepherd.
The qualities of a Good Shepherd.
The Lord is my shepherd, I lack nothing. He makes me lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside quiet waters, he refreshes my soul.
Psalm 23:1-3
A Good Shepherd Provides.
- Provides for needs.
- Provides for restorative and refreshing delight for the soul.
- Provides peace.
He guides me along the right paths for his name’s sake.
Psalm 23:3
A Good Shepherd Leads.
- Leads towards the way of what is right and good.
- Leads for God’s glory.
Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil, for you are with me…
Psalm 23:4
A Good Shepherd Instills Trust.
- Shows himself as faithful even when facing times of darkness and death.
…your rod and your staff, they comfort me.
Psalm 23:4
A Good Shepherd Protects.
- Shields from threats to the point of laying down his own life.
- Guides away from dangerous paths.
- Disciplines in a manner to provide safety and well-being.
- Rescues from pitfalls.
- Frees his flock from oppression and peril.
You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies.
Psalm 23:5
A Good Shepherd Offers Reassurance.
- Finds safe moments to sit and listen to our fears and doubts even while living among threats.
- Builds a relationship with every sheep in his flock and shows understanding.
You anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows.
Psalm 23:5
A Good Shepherd Fills Up and Let’s Go.
- Equips, inspires, builds up for accomplishment in God’s calling.
- Delights in sending out for God’s service and glory.
Surely your goodness and love will follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the Lord Forever.
Psalm 23:5
A Good Shepherd Instills Hope.
- Hope in his plan for ultimate goodness in our life.
- Hope in the endurance of his love.
- Hope in God’s mercy and heavenly plan for his children.
Happy Father’s Day, Dad…
And to all dads, father figures, and good shepherds seeking to lead God’s flock, may God bless and guide you.
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Robin Wood
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