Scripture Focus: Psalm 23:1 The Lesson in Context There is one important distinction between the metaphor of the physical shepherd and our heavenly Shepherd. In the livestock industry, shepherds do not give their animals any choice of whether to stay with the flock. Those sheep have no choice in the matter; they must do whatever the shepherd says. However, God, as our loving and Good Shepherd, recognizes we are humans and not farm animals. He has given each of us free will to humbly submit to His status as the Good Shepherd. He will not force us to stay with the herd. He will continually pursue us, but He will never forcefully coerce us. Instead, He cries out to us, beckoning us to join His flock. He is always ready with a loving embrace. Those who are already in the flock can participate in God’s mission to find and restore the lost sheep of this world. Probably all of us know some lost sheep, wandering about with no shepherd, no guidance, and no direction. When we encounter these persons, let us be bold to testify of the provision and protection we have found in Christ. Let us allow our anointing and blessings to shine through us for all the world to see. Let us use the goodness and mercy God has given us to bless others. Let us guide this hurting world to the Shepherd who is faithfully guiding us. Group Discussion 1. What are some ways God shows you He cares for you daily? 2. Oftentimes we think of God’s blessings in terms of what He has given to us, but what about what God has kept us from? What are some of the things we may not have experienced because of God’s protection? 3. What are some things God has provided for you in the past? How do these testimonies give you confidence in His ability to provide for you in the future? 4. Can you count all of God’s blessings in your life? Have you ever tried? Perhaps a good exercise in the coming days would be to sit down and write out as many of God’s blessings as you can recall. 5. What are some of the ways we can constantly, purposefully, and intentionally “dwell” in God’s presence? In between church services, how can we experience God on a daily basis?