In describing the Lord as a Shepherd, David wrote out of his own experience because he had spent his early years caring for sheep. Sheep are completely dependent on the shepherd for provision, guidance, and protection. The New Testament calls Jesus the Good Shepherd, the Great Shepherd and the Chief Shepherd. As the Lord is the Good Shepherd, so we are His sheep – not frightened, passive animals, but obedient followers, wise enough to follow One who will lead us in the right places and in right ways. This psalm does not focus on the animal-like qualities of sheep, but on the discipleship qualities of those who follow. When you recognize the Good Shepherd, follow Him!
When we allow God our Shepherd to guide us, we have contentment. When we choose to sin, however, we go our own way and cannot blame God for the environment we create for ourselves. Our Shepherd knows the “green pastures” and the “quiet waters” that will restore us. We will reach these places only by following Him obediently. Rebelling against the Shepherd’s leading is actually rebelling against our own best interests. We must remember this the next time we are tempted to go our own way rather than the Shepherd’s way.
Death casts a frightening shadow over us because we are entirely helpless in its presence. We can struggle with other enemies – pain, suffering, disease, injury – but strength and courage cannot overcome death. It has the final word. Only one Person can walk with us through death’s dark valley and bring us safely to the other side – the God of life, our Shepherd. Because life is uncertain, we should follow the Shepherd who offers us eternal comfort.
In ancient Near Eastern culture, at a banquet it was customary to anoint a person with fragrant oil as a lotion. Hosts were also expected to protect their guests at all costs. God offers the protection of a host even when enemies surround us. In the final scene of this Psalm, we see that believers will dwell with God. God, the perfect Shepherd and Host, promises to guide and protect us through life to bring us into His house forever. (LIFE APPLICATION BIBLE – NIV)