As the sun makes its full appearance above the horizon, he takes his flock out on the rich pastureland of the plain. The green grasses have grown tall and mix with the clover in the field as the sheep spend the day grazing on the varied vegetation at their disposal. They spread to various areas around the plain, but never are allowed to stray far from the shepherd or his designated assistants. Near the end of the day, they are ushered back to the safety of the sheepfold, preparing to undertake the same venture tomorrow.

When we think of the Psalms and the pictures of the sheep and shepherd, we often flock to the 23rd Psalm. However, there is an interesting statement used by David in Psalm 37 that gives another picture of the relationship of the people of God to sheep. He writes, "Trust in the Lord, and do good; dwell in the land, and feed on His faithfulness. Delight yourself also in the Lord, and He shall give you the desires of your heart" (vv. 3-4 NKJV).

The term translated "feed" comes from the Hebrew word meaning to graze or to care for flocks. It references that which is utilized to feed and strengthen the flock.

Notice that, on this occasion, David does not point us toward the shepherd himself, or the sheep, but to that upon which they feed from the spiritual perspective, our food should be rooted in the faithfulness of God. If we are consistently feeding on the truth of God's faithfulness, it will be far easier for us to place our trust and delight in our relationship with Him.

However, if we are failing to feed properly on the certainty of God's faithfulness, it will be impossible to build the trust in God necessary to fully serve Him. It is for this reason that Paul wrote, "And not only that, but we also glory in tribulations, knowing that tribulation produces perseverance; and perseverance, character; and character, hope. Now hope does not disappoint, because the love of God has been poured out in our hearts by the Holy Spirit who was given to us" (Rom. 5:3-5 NKJV).

James adds a similar sentiment when he admonishes, "My brethren, count it all joy when you fall into various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience. But let patience have its perfect work, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking nothing" (James 1:2-4 NKJV). As we graze regularly on the faithfulness of God to be with us through any situation, we become stronger in our convictions, bolder in our confidence, and more certain of our ultimate future.

See and remember the faithfulness of God. Make His promises and the certainty of their fulfillment a constant portion of your daily spiritual diet. It will allow the full placement of trust in Him and will lead to true delight in His loving care.

--from Devotions from the Hebrew Hymnal, Volume 1, pp. 82-83