Summary

Here it is specifically important to keep the right image of the shepherd and his sheep in mind. At times, the flock of sheep had to be led through a very dark valley with rock cliffs hanging overhead. It was an ideal opportunity for wild animals or robbers to catch something—a life-threatening terrain. Without an alert shepherd, no sheep will get through this, for they are helpless by nature. But listen, you can hear the thump of the shepherd’s staff—our master is close by—and in his hand is a sturdy club. We are protected.

This image may encourage a child of God. My God keeps his eye on me. My God is stronger than anyone and anything. They knew that in David’s time. After all, Moses could already tell them: For what great nation is there that has a god so near to it as the Lord our God is to us, whenever we call upon him? (Deuteronomy 4:7). In Psalm 139, this sounds even stronger: Where shall I go from your Spirit? Or where shall I flee from your presence? If I ascend to heaven, you are there! If I make my bed in Sheol, you are there! If I take the wings of the morning and dwell in the uttermost parts of the sea, even there your hand shall lead me, and your right hand shall hold me (Psalm 139:7–10). Since the coming of Jesus, this close care is even more secure. After all, an angel said to Joseph about the child that Maria was expecting that in him the Immanuel, which means God with us, is a glorious reality for Christians (Matthew 1:23 and Matthew 28:20).

That is why the Christian, reading this Psalm, surely has the freedom to go beyond what David was thinking and experiencing, and reflect on these words in the light of Christ. Why isn’t the believer afraid of sin and death? The answer to that is that we are in Christ, and being in Christ means that we have been raised with him through our union with him (Colossians 3:1–3).¹ Therefore, no matter how storms may rage in our life, a Christian can bravely continue, for you are with me. This good Shepherd has a heart for all his sheep (John 10:11–16).