David, The Protector of Sheep

David, the writer of Psalms 23, was a man who loved his animals. He cared for them as a good shepherd would and, as a result, these animals had no want. David supplied all their needs. When they needed water, he gave them water. When they were sickly, he nurtured them to health. They…at times were afraid; he stayed near. They were in constant dangers from attacks; David diverted their attention while always on watch for their predators. He knew when they were stressed and he would seek out places of rest. He anticipated all of the changing environments and made the necessary adjustments to sustain his helpless creatures.

Identifying with David

In many ways…those of us who are domestic animal lovers and who have cared for animals have a greater appreciation for Psalms 23.  We are constantly concerned about our animals’ welfare — meaning their safety, their health, and what they will eat  (Prov. 12:10).  We spend years building relationships with our pets and understand them on levels that the casual observer would never understand. Real animal lovers can sense the heart of David, the true shepherd, as he met every need of those over his care.

God, The Ultimate Provider

Domestic animal lovers know how helpless their animals are. We go through the daily routines of looking after their needs. We also look upward and understand that God has been doing similar things for us! It is an appreciation we feel toward God, because we understand the relationship we have with our animals. The duty David had with his flock is what caused him to look internally and see the greater relationship God had with him. We see — as David did — the Master provider; the One who oversees our needs and doesn’t fail to mete-out at the appropriate times.

The Lord is my shepherd!
He is with me!