See, the Sovereign Lord comes with power, and he rules with a mighty arm. See, his reward is with him, and his recompense accompanies him. He tends his flock like a shepherd:
Isaiah 40:10-11a, New International Version
Your servant has killed both the lion and the bear; this uncircumcised Philistine will be like one of them, because he has defied the armies of the living God.
1 Samual 17:36, New International Version

Yesterday, my focus was on the gentle shepherd. The Lord knows each of us and the degree of care we need. He takes the time to tend to each of us individually for our good. This is the gentle side of His heart. However, there is another side to the Lord as our shepherd. He shepherds us with both power and might.

Initially, we may be fearful of this imagery. In the same scripture, we saw the tender heart of God, what precedes it is the Lord in His mighty power. But here is the point. God's power, might, recompense, and even wrath are not ever directed at His flock. It is reserved for thieves and wolves.

Sure, the Lord will discipline the sheep who wander and He will use His staff to keep us near Him, but He reserves His "mighty arm" to protect us. This is how Jesus puts it: "The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full. I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep." (John 10:10-11). There is nothing Jesus will not do to protect us from the thieves and wolves that seek to harm us.

We not only do not need to fear the shepherd, but we can rest in the peace of knowing that all of His power is directed to protect us. With the "Sovereign Lord who comes in power," we can be assured that we will find ourselves safe in His care.

Love, Pastor Stuart