Abiding in ChristmasSample

"Abiding in Christmas: Daily Advent Thoughts" by Bryan Craig

DAY THIRTEEN

The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. He makes me lie down in green pastures. He leads me beside still waters. He restores my soul. He leads me in paths of righteousness for His name's sake. Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for You are with me; Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me. You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies; You anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows. Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life, and I shall dwell in the house of the Lord forever.” (Psalm 23:1-6 ESV)

Let’s meditate on a few more Scriptures from the Old Testament as we continue to establish a foundation for the coming of Jesus. As we said a few days ago, Jesus is a Shepherd, just like King David, who wrote Psalm 23. Jesus gently leads us, protects us, and feeds us. He says His sheep know His voice. 

You probably would rather be called a prince or princess than a sheep. If you want a great analysis on how much we are like sheep and need a shepherd, read “A Shepherd Looks at Psalm 23” by Phillip Keller.  This Christmas, know that God sent you your very own Shepherd, one who will never leave you or forsake you, and one who will go and find you when you are lost. He will guide you, if you will let Him, into paths of righteousness, all the way to the house of the Lord.

APPLICATION: Have you given ownership of your life over to your Shepherd, Jesus? If not, recognize that He purchased you with His very own blood. Give Him the deed to your life.