Day 7: He tends His flock
For He is our God, and we are the people of His pasture, the flock under His care (Psalm 95:7).
O Lord, You are the the Shepherd and Overseer of our souls (1 Peter 2:25)—the One who tends his flock like a shepherd: [who] gathers the lambs in His arms and carries them close to His heart; [who] gently leads those that have young (Isaiah 40:11). Thank You for Your tender care. Thank You for safety, for protection—for holding us fast in Your powerful hand.
Teach us to hear Your voice above the roar and thunder of conflict, war, and strife; above the noise and din of endless chatter and mindless babble. Lead us beside quiet waters. Refresh and restore our souls (Psalm 23: 2-3). Let us hear Your loving voice: "Do not be afraid, little flock, for your Father has been pleased to give you the kingdom" (Luke 12:32).
Teach us to press in to the truth of Your words, "Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil for You are with me, Your rod and Your staff they comfort me" (Psalm 23: 4).
Teach us to rest in Your assurance: I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish; no one will snatch them out of My hand. My Father, who has given them to Me, is greater than all; no one can snatch them out of My Father’s hand (John 10:28-29).
Loving Shepherd of Thy sheep
Keep Thy lamb in safety keep
Nothing can Thy pow'r withstand
None can pluck me from Thy hand
I will bless Thee ev'ry day
Gladly all Thy will obey
Like Thy blessed ones above
Happy in Thy precious love
Loving Shepherd, ever near
Teach Thy lamb Thy voice to hear
Suffer not my steps to stray
From the straight and narrow way
Where Thou leadest I will go
Walking in Thy steps below
Till before Thy Father's throne
I shall know as I am known
~ Jane Eliza Leeson ~ 1842
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