#good shepherd

MaryEllen Montville “Even when I walk through the darkest valley, I will not be afraid for you are close beside me. Your rod and your staff protect and comfort me.” –Psalm 23:4. The Lord has led me to this Psalm, a personal favorite, in times of trials, loss, pain, fear, or need: for wisdom, comfort, provision, direction, and as a reminder that Jesus is the same God in this season as He was in…

Day 225 — Thursday, August 13, 2026 Story — When the Noise Stops, Who Is Really Being Noticed Wednesday had been a climb for most of the day. Then, just as the last scheduled meeting was nearing its end, the breaking news arrived. He could almost hear the sound effect in his head and see the red banner scrolling across the screen as word came through that the concern he had been carrying all…

Here is an excellent Messianic Jewish perspective on Psalm 23, exhibiting it as a beautiful illustration of the complete life of faith from beginning to end. From Jewish Studies for Christians………. https://jewishstudiesforchristians.com/the-lord-is-my-shepherd/?utm_campaign=flo-lord-is-my-shepherd-button&utm_medium=newsletter&utm_source=email

Day 202 — Tuesday, July 21, 2026 Story — Armored Up and Ready to Walk in Peace Before the sun fully broke through the morning haze, he lay still with his eyes closed, unsure of the exact time but unwilling to rise too early. In that stillness, he prayed — first for his wife and their marriage, then for each of his children and the plans set before them that day. When he opened his eyes, the…

In the Life of Christ One of the most comforting images Jesus ever gave His followers is that of the shepherd and his sheep. In John 10:1–18, 27–28, Jesus does not merely describe Himself as a shepherd among many; He declares that He is the Good Shepherd who knows His sheep personally, calls them by name, and willingly lays down His life for them. As I read this passage, I am reminded that…

I don’t know about you, but smell is one of my strongest senses. I love the smell of coffee shops, carnations, freshly mowed grass, good perfume (no musk, please—I’m allergic), freshly baked cinnamon rolls, Christmas cookies, vanilla, and Ray’s cologne. What I don’t enjoy are farm animal smells, skunks, cigars, waste, spoilage, sickness, or death. Yes, death has a smell. Over the years, God…

Listen to the podcast of this post by clicking on the player below, and you can also subscribe on Apple, Spotify, or Audible. https://craigtowens.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/sabbath-rest.mp3  There remains a Sabbath-rest for the people of God. (Hebrews 4:9)  The word Sabbath-rest (Greek: sabbatismos) is unique in all of Scripture. This is the place of total and complete contentment in God’s…