"I AM THE GOOD SHEPHERD." We are His sheep, and our numbers are few. God's care includes every believer. The flock is small. It is in the desert. Enemies surround it. His lambs especially are timid. But He says, "Fear not." You are your Shepherd's care; you are His property, His delight. He is always present; He is omnipotent to defend you. Every perfection of His nature is employed for you. He never lost one of His charge yet; He never will. It was said of Him by the prophet, "He shall feed His flock like a shepherd; He shall gather the lambs with His arm, and carry them in His bosom, and shall gently lead those that are with young." He gathers His sheep to His fold, He feeds them in good pasture, He restores them when they wander; He makes them pass under the rod, and marks them as His own. The provision He has made for them is suitable and abundant. Beloved, let us know our Shepherd; let us listen to His voice; let us keep close to His side; let us feed and rest among His sheep; let us exercise confidence in His kindness and care; let us banish our fears, for why should we be alarmed? Let us cast all our care upon Him.

For Meditation:
Fear not, believe His word;
You are to Jesus given;
'Tis the good pleasure of the Lord
To bring you safe to heaven;
Then listen to your Shepherd's voice,
And in His constant care rejoice.