THE LORD IS MY SHEPHERD - VISIBLE IMPOSTERS
The role of shepherds.
Introduction
Welcome to this 30-minute workbook designed to deepen your understanding of Psalm 23 and its application in your life. The focus of this session is "The Lord is my Shepherd," exploring the roles of genuine shepherds and recognizing imposters. Through Scripture readings, reflection, and action points, you will gain insight into how to rely solely on the true Shepherd, Jesus Christ, and avoid the pitfalls of false shepherds.
Scripture Readings
1. Psalm 23:1-3 (NIV)
"The Lord is my shepherd, I lack nothing. He makes me lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside quiet waters, he refreshes my soul. He guides me along the right paths for his name’s sake."
2. Ezekiel 34:12 (NIV)
"As a shepherd looks after his scattered flock when he is with them, so will I look after my sheep. I will rescue them from all the places where they were scattered on a day of clouds and darkness."
3. John 10:11 (NIV)
"I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep."
4. 1 Peter 5:2-3 (NIV)
"Be shepherds of God’s flock that is under your care, watching over them—not because you must, but because you are willing, as God wants you to be; not pursuing dishonest gain, but eager to serve; not lording it over those entrusted to you, but being examples to the flock."
5. Romans 13:1 (NIV)
"Let everyone be subject to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established. The authorities that exist have been established by God."
Reflection Questions
1. Psalm 23:1-3
How does understanding the Lord as your Shepherd change your view of your daily needs and anxieties?
Reflect on a time when you felt "refreshed" or guided by God. How did it impact your life?
2. Ezekiel 34:12
What does this passage tell you about God's role as a shepherd? How does it reassure you of His care?
3. John 10:11
In what ways does knowing Jesus is the "good shepherd" affect your relationship with Him?
4. 1 Peter 5:2-3
How can leaders within the church or your community embody the qualities described in this passage?
5. Romans 13:1
Reflect on how you can balance respect for earthly authorities while prioritizing your allegiance to God's authority.
Action Points
1. Evaluate Your Shepherds
Self-Assessment: Reflect on the various "shepherds" in your life. This includes influences from people, institutions, or self-reliant attitudes. Make a list of these shepherds and assess whether they are guiding you towards or away from Jesus Christ.
2. Prayerful Alignment
Action: Spend 5 minutes in prayer asking God to reveal any areas where you might be relying on false shepherds. Pray for strength to rely solely on Him.
3. Set Boundaries
Action: Identify any areas where external influences or imposters might be taking a more prominent role in your life than they should. Create specific, actionable steps to realign your focus on God. This might include limiting time on social media, setting boundaries with people who are overly controlling, or seeking accountability in areas of weakness.
4. Reflect and Journal
Action: Write a brief journal entry reflecting on the Scriptures and questions discussed. Note any personal insights or commitments you've made regarding your reliance on the true Shepherd.
5. Engage with a Community
Action: Share your reflections and action points with a trusted friend, mentor, or small group. Discuss how you can support each other in keeping the Lord as your true Shepherd.
Closing Prayer
Heavenly Father,
Thank You for being our Good Shepherd, guiding us, protecting us, and providing for all our needs. Help us to recognize and reject the imposters that seek to lead us away from You. Strengthen our faith in Your guidance and care. May we always turn to You as our ultimate Shepherd, relying on Your Word and Your ways.
In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.