Building A Relationship with God

A shepherd is a person who watches over, tends, guards and protects his sheep.

So, why did David compare his relationship with God, as one of a shepherd and his sheep?
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David was a shepherd boy before he became king (1 Sam. 17:34-36). David knew what it took to be a shepherd. He knew every sheep and when one was lost. He knew how to take care of them, tend to them, guard and protect them. The sheep in return, came to know his voice and trusted their shepherd to fully provide for their every need.

In John 10, we see Jesus use this analogy of being the Good Shepherd. He explains that he is the only way to enter the gates and his sheep will follow because they know His voice. He tells us that a good shepherd lays down his life for his sheep. 

A shepherd who has ownership over his sheep would die for them, because the sheep were bought with a price. Therefore, they mean far more to him than that of a hired hand (John 10:4, 11-14).

Hearing these words from Jesus amplifies David’s statement even more with rich meaning and shows His great love for us, His sheep.

Our Good Shepherd wants us to live our lives in abundance but we have to stop trying to do it all on our own. We have to admit that our way is far more difficult and that He knows what is best for us. As we spend time with Him, we will learn His voice and follow.

Throughout David’s life as a shepherd he spent a lot of time alone, that time was spent building resilience by defending his sheep to later becoming the anointed King (1 Sam. 16:11-13).
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Throughout his life, he continued to follow God’s voice allowing God to guide David safely through every trial. As we look to scripture, we see David show such intimacy by using the word “my,” implying that he has a personal relationship with God.

​He believes that he lacks nothing because of the way God has always showed up for him. David knew that with God he did not have to worry about his life, where to go or how his needs would be met.

When we spend time with our Shepherd in prayer and in His Word, we will come to recognize His voice, too.
Just like a sheep with his shepherd.

It wasn’t long ago that I was lost and wondering. Looking to things or people to fill a void that only Jesus could fill. Once I started praying with more intention, attending a small group and reading God’s Word regularly then I started to see a change. It was not immediate; just like any new relationship, it took time, consistency and trust. By building my relationship with Him, and keeping my eyes fixed on the things unseen, God has always met me in my time of need because He has never left me alone. No matter what danger comes my way, or how far I wonder. He is there to keep me safe and call me back into His loving arms.
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And friend, He wants to do the same for you!
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“The Lord is my shepherd, I lack nothing.” Psalm 23:1 (NIV)

About the Author

Hello! I’m Brenna Kurz.  I am married to my best friend, Josh. We have two beautiful children, Evelyn and Ethan. I enjoy working out, spending time with my family and traveling to new places. I have experienced the grace of God in many situations over the last several years and can testify how merciful and good our God is. I want to encourage others to be in His word and seek Him daily— that He is always there and always faithful.