Beside the Still Waters

Under the guidance of the good shepherd, the sheep is being properly looked after. Laying in pastures of tender grass it is at rest, lacking nothing, relaxed and contented. In this state of contentment is the wisdom of the shepherd, for to be able to have its thirst satisfied the shepherd must lead the sheep beside still waters.

Instinctively, sheep are afraid of moving water. Because of its heavy coat of wool it is not a good swimmer; the water would soak into the wool pulling the sheep down. Being a timid creature it is said that the sheep will not drink from a moving stream, only from still waters. In his The Healing Power of the 23rd Psalm Charles Allen writes, "The shepherd does not laugh at the sheep’s fears. He does not try to force the sheep. Instead, as he leads his sheep across the mountains and valleys, he is constantly on the watch for still waters, where the thirst of the sheep may be quenched. If there are no still waters available, while the sheep are resting, the shepherd will gather up stones to fashion a dam across a small stream to form a pool from which even the tiniest lamb may drink without fear."

Knowing the disposition and limitations of his sheep allows the shepherd to provide care that is consistent with that disposition. In that picture of care is a picture of God. Allen continues, "God knows our limitations, and He does not condemn us because we have weaknesses. He does not force us where we cannot safely and happily go. God never demands of us work that is beyond our strength and abilities. Instead, God is constantly ministering to our needs. He understands the loads upon our shoulders. He also knows where the places of nourishment and refreshment are located." What comfort!

For those of us who have accepted the LORD as our Shepherd, we too can rest assured that He has our best interest in mind. I find that extremely comforting. With Him I can face the challenges and the heat of the day knowing "He leadeth me beside the still waters" (Psalm 23:2b). I can be at rest; He can be trusted.