The Evangelist Speaks

by Evangelist Carolyn Griffin

The Blessings Of Sheep

Last Saturday during Youth Day at KBBN, Travonte Peterson, a ninth grader at Greenville High School shared an inspirational message entitled “Are You a Sheep or a Goat”? His message was powerful and really caused all who heard it to take inventory of our actions as we profess to be children of God. If we are indeed his children, then we are the sheep of His pasture. We hear and obey His voice and we don’t follow strangers. I try to make the 23rd Psalm a part of my daily devotional. I reflected on Travonte’s message as I read it this past week. I have a new study bible and the author list the blessings of sheep in his study notes on the 23rd Psalm. As I meditated on these blessings, I thought that I would share them with our readers. If you are a sheep, then you can relate to these blessings. Goats, on the other hand, will hopefully be encouraged to follow the Good Shepherd. 

14 Blessings of Sheep: They have…….

1.     The Lord as their Shepherd (v 1)

2.     No want (v 1; 34:9-10; 84:11)

3.     Rest in choice green pastures (v 2)

4.     Guidance to still, deep, waters  of rest and refreshing (v 2; John 4:14; 7:37-39)

5.     Restoration of soul (v 3)

6.     Guidance in paths of right for His name’s sake, which gives no cause for stumbling, falling or going astray (v 3)

7.     Safe passage through the valley of the shadow of death. The valleys we face today are just as dangerous as the wild, beast infested, dangerous, death-lurking ravines so common in Palestine. (v 4)

8.     No fear of evil because of the Shepherd’s constant companionship, watch, and protection (v 4)

9.     The comfort of the Shepherd’s rod and staff (used for defense against the sheep’s enemies and for the sheep’s protection v 4)

10. Prepared and full tables of food to feast on in the presence of enemies (v 5). Sheep feast in safety while the Shepherd watches, fights, and protects

11. Heads anointed with perfumed oil (v 5). This preceded feasts of ancient times. Today the anointing of the Lord rest upon His sheep.

12. Cups running over (v 5). Not only plenty of food and wholesome drink, but blessings to share with others.

13. Confidence that such goodness and mercy will follow them to the end of life (v 6)

14. Faith that in the next life they will dwell in God’s house forever (v 6; John 14:1-3)

In every verse of the 23rd Psalm we find promises from God. We can only receive these promises and enjoy the blessings and benefits they give when we act like sheep; totally dependent on the Good Shepherd and willing to trust Him in every area of our lives; walking in obedience to His will and His word. Are you enjoying the blessings of sheep, or are you a goat?