Psalm 16:7-9 I will bless the Lord who has given me counsel; My heart also instructs me in the night seasons. I have set the Lord always before me; Because He is at my right hand I shall not be moved. Therefore my heart is glad, and my glory rejoices; My flesh also will rest in hope.

In life and in shepherding, where we focus matters. We can be man-centered, or God-centered. If we are man-centered we will tend to fear what others think of us and operate out of a mode of performance and self-focused achievement. If we are God-centered we will tend to be more concerned about what God thinks of us and operate out of a mode of surrender and God-glorifying faithfulness.

The Psalmist knew this all too well. He wanted to bless the Lord because it was the Lord who had given him counsel. It was the Lord who shaped his heart. So he set the Lord before him and knew that if the Lord was at his right hand he could not be shaken. The outcome of this type of focus and stability is gladness of heart and rejoicing. It is a peaceful rest in the hope God gives us.

How can we set the Lord always before us?

*Abide in Him.

*Learn from Him in His Word.

*Commune with Him through Prayer.

*Rest in the Hope that He gives!