The shepherd has a critical role in providing conditions for sheep to rest, including freedom from fear, pests, hunger, and social friction within the flock.

Both David and his descendant, Jesus Christ, demonstrated their dedication in protecting the sheep, even at great personal risk, unlike hirelings, then and now.

Casting takes place when a sheep falls over and its weight causes it to get stuck on its back until the shepherd intervenes.

A major heresy is that God is completely about love and no correction. However, the rod of correction is an essential part of being guided safely.

Life consists of a series of choices, often a dilemma of a pleasurable choice on one hand and a difficult choice (that produces more growth) on the other.