In the Word: God is Gentle

Welcome to Hope Mommies’ In the Word devotionals. Over the next several weeks, we will be looking at different characteristics of God—specifically reflecting on how each aspect of His character offers us hope in the midst of our grief.  As we study together, we encourage you to use the comments as a place to dialogue with us about what you are learning and share your answers to the questions below. We pray that you hearts will be encouraged as you dig into the infinitely beautiful character of God along with us! 

“He will tend His flock like a shepherd; He will gather the lambs in His arms; He will carry them in His bosom, and gently lead those that are with young.”
Isaiah 40:11

READ:

Just as a shepherd lovingly cares for his sheep, Jesus tenderly and gently cares for us, His children. David proclaimed in Psalm 23 that because the Lord was His shepherd, he had everything he needed. David’s life was not free from sorrow or hardship. Many years of his life he was hunted by King Saul and later by his own son. He experienced the death of several of his children. The Ark of the Covenant, which signified the presence of God, was captured during His reign. And yet, even in all this, he declared that He had everything he needed.

David recognized that because he was in the gentle care of the Good Shepherd, he could be content regardless of his circumstances. He entrusted his life to the Lord, and hung onto the rest and renewal that comes from being in His presence.

Dear one, the Good Shepherd will lead you gently, lovingly, and purposefully through every circumstance you face. You can be confident that He will guide and carry you through the joys and sorrows of life because you are precious to Him. What an incredible promise this is for us in our grief!

REFLECT:

1. How does seeing the shepherd-heart of God deepen your understanding of how He is caring for you in your sorrow?
2. How can the knowledge that God is gently guiding you, help you choose to be content in all circumstances?

JOURNAL:

How have you already experienced the gentle guiding of the Good Shepherd in your life? How will you experience those benefits in even greater measure in eternity? Write a prayer to God, entrusting yourself to His gentle care and provision.

Ashlee is the Editorial Coordinator for Hope Mommies. She and her husband, Jesse, have four children on earth and two little ones in Heaven. You can get to know her more by reading her blog, Beyond Undone.

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