Learning To Trust The Good Shepherd

“The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. He makes me lie down in green pastures. He leads me beside still waters. He restores my soul…” — Psalm 23:1–3a (ESV)

A good shepherd doesn’t just lead for the sake of movement—he leads with intention, with care, and with love. His eyes are always on the well-being of his sheep, guiding them gently to green pastures where their needs are met and their souls are refreshed. But for this to happen, the sheep must follow.

As Christians, this picture mirrors our journey with God. We say with our lips, “Lead me, Lord,” but our actions often say, “Let me lead myself.” We sing, “Shepherd of my soul, I give You full control,” yet we wrestle silently with letting go.

I remember a season when I was desperate to change jobs. Everything around me felt dry—like a wilderness. I prayed, fasted, and even updated my CV weekly. But every door remained closed. I was frustrated. Until one day, during quiet time, I felt the Lord whisper, “Stay. I’m still working here.” It was hard to obey, but I did. Months later, not only did He open a new opportunity, but He also used that dry season to teach me how to depend on Him, not just His blessings.

Surrendering to the Shepherd means trusting His process even when we don’t see progress. It means choosing to be led rather than rushing ahead. Like a sheep waiting for the shepherd’s cue, we must learn to pause and move only when He says go.

Ask the Holy Spirit this week: Where have I taken the lead in my own strength? Whether it’s in your finances, relationships, or calling—give Him back the reins. Write down one area where you’ll wait for His direction, even if it means standing still for now.

Green pastures aren’t always a place—they’re often a posture of surrender. And when the Shepherd leads, He restores.