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Psalm 23:2

Sermonette by Ronny H. Graham

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.

Psalm 23

Sermonette by Ronny H. Graham

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

Psalm 23:3

Sermonette by Ronny H. Graham

Casting, a predicament unique to sheep, frequently occurs close to shearing time. Casting takes place when a sheep falls over and the weight of the woolly coat or the weight of the sheep causes it to get stuck on its back. The sheep will remain that way unless the shepherd intervenes. We too need our Shepherd to intervene for us. Focusing on Psalm 23:3, we are reminded that our Shepherd restores our souls and leads us in the paths of righteousness. Keeping God's Holy Days and removing the cares of the world enables the Shepherd's spirit to continue to restore our souls. King David was unable to worship at the Tabernacle while fleeing from King Saul and from the unjust man in Psalm 43, which resulted in the casting down of his soul. The wool most likely represents the cares of the world and prevents us from quickly following our Shepherd. As Christ leads us down the paths of righteousness, we are exhorted to watch and then follow His righteous example. Using the illustration of the "Seven Fresh Attitudes" listed by Phillip Keller, we are given suggestions on how to improve righteousness in our own lives, mostly through the principle of self-denial.

Matthew (Part Eleven)

Sermon/Bible Study by John W. Ritenbaugh

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.