For the Lamb in the midst of the throne will be their shepherd and he will guide them to springs of living water. – Revelation 7:17

Shepherds are featured in both the Old and New Testaments. “Shepherd“ is mentioned 111 times in the Bible, “sheep“ appears 198, and “lamb“ occurs 191 times. Bible scholars often say that when you see repetition in the Bible, you should pay attention! Psalm 23 relates that God is a good shepherd taking care of His sheep. In the New Testament, the angels announced the birth of the Messiah to shepherds. Jesus said He was the Good Shepherd who gave His life for His sheep (John 10:11). He also said His sheep know His voice. (John 10:27).

If you have given your life to Jesus, you have heard the Shepherd. As the Shepherd described in Psalm 23, He promises to guide you and take care of you. With Christmas over, you may be trying to dig out of upheaval, deal with illness, or perhaps avoid the news of division between political parties. You may approach January as a time to evaluate your past year and set goals for the new year. Planning could seem a daunting task as changes occur in your personal life as well as the nation’s economy and political landscape.

Revelation speaks of Jesus as the Lamb being the Shepherd. Of course, this refers to Jesus being the sacrificial Lamb for the forgiveness of sin. In your quiet time today, give praise to the Lord that He has the power to transform your life and guide you through all circumstances. Intercede for the people of the United States to receive His salvation and be ready for the second coming of the Shepherd Lamb.