March 27 | Psalm 23
- Gene Pierce
- 9 hours ago
- 3 min read
DAILY READING
REFLECTION
The Good Shepherd's Rod and Staff
By Gene Pierce
Poet, musician, warrior, king and sinner, David is one of the most complex heroes of the Bible.
This Psalm reveals David’s heart in a state of security and satisfaction in his God and Savior.
David knew the Good Shepherd would use His rod and staff to guide, discipline and protect him and all His sheep from their enemies.
This security and trust are evident from the first time we are introduced to David in 1 Samuel 17. He was just a little brother tasked to deliver food to his brothers on the battlefield, but he was fearless in facing those who challenged and insulted the God of Israel.
In this Psalm, David writes that he is safe in the hands of God, nothing can upset or ruin that connection.
Yet there were many other times where his life was torn apart and were anything but peaceful.
Before he became King, David lived on the run for years, hiding in caves and pretending to be insane, away from King Saul who accused him of treason and tried to kill him.
His best friend and trusted ally Jonathan was tragically killed in battle.
When he was confronted with his adultery with Bathsheba and murder of her husband, he sat desolate in his chambers, comatose in grief and guilt.
Two of his children died, to his great grief.
Late in his life, he was routed from the palace because his own son had launched a military coup and would have killed David if he had caught him.
Those weren’t rosy, “peachy keen” happy times. A “prosperity gospel” sermon won’t survive this fact pattern.
Yet in spite of all these challenges (and perhaps because of these challenges), David’s heart was centered on the security of knowing God’s blessings on him.
Have you ever had a situation so dark or discouraging that it made you sick to your stomach or news so bad you had to sit down? A frightening diagnosis? A lost job? A shattered relationship? A lightning bolt out of the blue that just knocks you to the floor?
We can learn from David’s experience and rest in God’s protection, no matter how severe the challenge. It is not easy, but God still offers us peace and rest in Him.
The true Good Shepherd says, “Come to me all who are burdened and heavy laden, and I will give you rest. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light....and you will find rest for your soul.”
God’s rod and staff are still available today. Count on them for your own safety and security.
PRAYER
Lord, keep me secure in your love and grace, knowing your rod and staff protect and guide me, no matter the challenge I face or the sin I must repent. Bring me closer to you daily, so I can take up the cross you offer, knowing that your yoke is easy and your burden is light.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Gene Pierce is a longtime member of UALC and our International Missions Committee and is a former Council member, still learning how to balance life, work and faith. Gene and his wife Elaine are blessed to be parents of four and grandparents of nine.