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?
Growing up I always viewed the rod and staff as being pulled back to the fold. While this is also true, the fact that the rod protects me adds yet another reason to worship! So many times I stray and wander looking for the greener grass and so many times Christ pulls me back. Lord, bind my wandering heart the thee! Thank you for seeking me out and accepting this stray! Thank you for allowing me to be apart of your fold.
God is the good shepherd, he cares for us and watched over us and protects us.
Danize, I’m praying for God’s protection over you and your children. The Good Shepherd knows what you are going through. He’s already has experienced all that you are going through. He will deliver you. I also pray for your abuser. God give him a heart of flesh, let Your Spirit fall on him so that he will love You and be obedient to Your word. Salvation Lord. In Jesus name. Amen Expect a notable miracle.
God is my defense, my high tower! My fortress! Thank You Jesus for surrounding me.
❤️ to you Kelly. Praying for you to feel the Shepherd’s protection as you walk through this.
I love hearing that God is my caretaker and provider. It makes me wonder why I constantly try to run to other sources to get what I need when I already have everything I need in Him. It’s like a kid that has a loving dad who provides him with every physical, relational, and spiritual need and the kid keeps running to the neighbor trying to get food and comfort and love. Thank God, He runs after us to the neighbors house to bring us back and show us the plenty He already has to offer.
So true! I am so thankful He pursues us!
Chandler…great analogy!
Thank you for protecting me, my Shepherd!
“For thus saith the Lord GOD; Behold, I, even I, will both search my sheep, and seek them out.” Thankful that I have a God that pursues me. “While we were still sinners Christ died for the ungodly.”