Today’s reading is Psalm 49.
“The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want.” I almost asked, “Do you remember that one?” But what kind of silly question would that be? Of course, you remember it. It is the most well-known psalm in the whole book.
But do you remember this one? “Death is my shepherd; I shall not be satisfied.”
Probably not. For starters, that psalm isn’t nearly as well-known. But also, it isn’t written exactly like that. However, that is exactly what Psalm 49 says. People who trust in money have a foolish confidence. Shockingly, even after those who trusted in money have died, other folks use their lives as an example and approve their boasts. However, when money is your master, the Lord is not your shepherd, death is.
Think about that. When we trust in wealth, wealth doesn’t shepherd us, death does. What a terrible picture. When we trust in money, our shepherd is not leading us through the valley of the shadow of death. Goodness and mercy are not following us all the days of our lives. And we will not dwell in the Lord’s house forever. Rather, when we trust in money, our shepherd is leading us to the slaughter house.
Money may build you a big house and buy you a nice car. It may clothe you in fine clothing. It may even provide you a nice retirement. But it will not restore your soul. It will not lead you in paths of righteousness. And it will not get you through the valley of the shadow of death.
Who is your shepherd? Only the Lord satisfies.
Tomorrow’s reading is Psalm 49.
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Discuss the Following Questions with Your Family
- What are your initial reactions to the psalm and the written devo above?
- Which would you rather be your shepherd: The Lord or death? Why?
- Does the idea of having death as a shepherd frighten you? Why or why not?
- How should you live today if you are going to let the Lord be your shepherd?
- What do you think we should pray for and about in light of this psalm and our discussion today?
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