Shepherd

BY She Reads Truth

In this Names of God reading plan, we are learning more about God by studying the names given to Him in Scripture. Rather than having our writers share their own reflections on these passages, we’ve instead provided research-rich content to aid in your study of each day’s featured name of God, including the background of the name(s), a brief explanation of the character of God emphasized by the name(s), and a reflection question to help you dig deeper into the text.

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Shepherd

Ro’i (Hebrew), Ro’eh (Hebrew), Poimen (Greek)

Scripture Reading: Psalm 23:1-6, Ezekiel 34:11-16, John 10:11-18, Hebrews 13:20-21, 1 Peter 2:22-25

Description

In Psalm 23, David writes of the Lord as a shepherd: He leads His sheep to calm pasture to eat, He leads them to water to drink, He keeps them on the right path, and He uses His rod to and staff to protect them. In John 10, Jesus calls Himself “the Good Shepherd.” He outlines His similar responsibilities: He lays down His life to protect His sheep, He gathers His sheep, and He speaks over His sheep. When He takes the name “Shepherd,” it doesn’t just reveal His role as our protective, sacrificial caretaker, it also reveals our role to remain loyal and dependent upon Him.

Emphasis

God as our provider and caretaker

Reflection

What does this name teach me about God?