Led by the Shepherd: The Life Behind the Crown
This Sunday, Ellen Chapman continued her journey through the life of David, reminding us that before he ever wore a crown, he carried a staff. David wasn’t just the warrior who defeated Goliath or the king who ruled a nation—he was a shepherd boy who knew the heart of his God.
The message this week centred around Psalm 23, one of the most well-known and well-loved passages in Scripture. Written by David later in life, it reflects the deep understanding of who God is, formed through years of walking with Him—through valleys, victories, and everything in between.
A Psalm for Real Life
Psalm 23 isn’t a fairytale. It’s not a story from someone who’s had an easy life. It’s a song from a man who made mistakes, faced giants, felt fear, and walked through darkness, but knew one truth more deeply than anything else:
“The Lord is my shepherd; I lack nothing.”
This was David’s praise, not just his poetry. He had experienced God’s provision, protection, and presence—and in this Psalm, he invites us to see God the same way.
What Does It Mean That God Is Our Shepherd?
Ellen unpacked the qualities of a shepherd and reminded us that God is all of them for us:
Provider – “He makes me lie down in green pastures…”
God knows what we need, and He doesn’t just give us scraps—He leads us to nourishing places that restore and refresh.Leader – “He guides me along the right paths…”
Even when we don’t understand, we can trust His direction. Obedience isn’t always easy, but it’s always worth it.Protector – “Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil…”
David had faced darkness, betrayal, loneliness—and he knew that God was with him through it all.Anointer – “You anoint my head with oil…”
God doesn’t just help us survive—He blesses and sets us apart. His anointing reminds us that we’re chosen, even in the presence of enemies or pressure.
God’s Goodness Will Chase You
One of the most powerful promises in this Psalm is verse 6:
“Surely your goodness and love will follow me all the days of my life…”
God’s love doesn’t stop chasing you. His goodness isn’t reserved for the “perfect Christian”—it’s for the person who stays close to the Shepherd. It’s for the one who realigns their heart daily, saying: “Lead me, Lord. You know the way.”
Let the Shepherd Lead
As Ellen reminded us, following the Shepherd takes trust and obedience. Even when you’re not sure where He’s taking you, or why the path looks difficult, He is always leading you somewhere good.
So today, take a moment to realign your heart. Step back from the noise. Remember who’s leading you.
Let the Shepherd guide you.
Let His voice be the loudest.
Let His presence bring peace.
Because if David—the warrior, king, and worshipper—could still say, “I lack nothing,” so can you.
Reflection Questions:
Are you letting God lead in your life right now, or are you still holding the reins?
Which verse from Psalm 23 speaks most deeply to your current season?
Is there an area where you need to realign yourself with the Shepherd today?
