Psalm 5:11

¹¹But let all who take refuge in you be glad; let them ever sing for joy. Spread your protection over them, that those who love your name may rejoice in you. 

The life story of the Israelites practically illustrated how the Lord protected them when they prioritized him. There were occasions when they were persecuted and impoverished by other nations but when they took refuge in the Lord and cried for his help, he saved them, and they sang for joy and rejoiced in his name. Christ declared in John 10:9-11: ⁹I am the gate; whoever enters through me will be saved. They will come in and go out, and find pasture. ¹⁰The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full. ¹¹I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep.

Christ declaration is very plain and simple to understand. He offers safe and full life to all who trust him. And. multitudes of believers could personally internalize what he promised.

Is it proper to interpret that Christ’s offer of finding pasture includes practical needs also and not just spiritual pasture? Since he did not specifically mention about spiritual pasture, practical needs can be included. Certainly, spiritual life is integrated with practical life.

Christ sacrificially died on the cross as punishment for our sins; it was utmost proof that he is good shepherd. Sheep are glad when their shepherd is with them. Likewise, it practically proves gladness with Christ when his Holy Spirit produces joyful peace in us. We believe that the Lord sent into our heart his Holy Spirit when we accepted Jesus Christ as our Lord and Savior. We sense great rejoicing when the Holy Spirit has complete control of our hearts and minds.

Sadly, when we cannot even sense gladness in our hearts, the Holy Spirit must have been set aside. We should seek inspiration of the Holy Spirit always to have joyful love, peace, patience, kindness and goodness.

Lord Jesus, please fill me with your Holy Spirit always.

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