Being a pastor, I normally take note of references in the Bible that refer to shepherds. Why? Pastor means shepherd. It’s not surprising, therefore, that when I came to verse 72 of psalm 78 I stopped for a moment to reflect.
Listen to verse 72, “David shepherded them with integrity of heart. With skillful hands he led them.” Sometimes it’s good to look at different translations to understand what is being said. The Jerusalem Bible translates it: “He did this with unselfish care and led them with a sensitive hand.” I like that. The Good News Bible talks about doing it with devotion and skill. The Amplified says, “David was their shepherd with an upright heart and guided them by the discernment and skillfulness which controlled his hands.” And the New Living Bible says, “He cared for them with a true heart and led them with skillful hands.”
Under-girding anyone’s ministry is the need for integrity of heart. I want to be the kind of man that serves unselfishly as I care for others, be devoted to others, and be upright or true in heart. My concerns should not be self-centered. They’re to be altruistic, reaching out in ministry to others without thinking about the cost or reward. My hands are to represent my heart’s desire and reach out to lend a helping hand to anyone in need.
Pray for your pastor, your shepherd! Pray for me. Pray for God’s servants throughout the world. Pray that God’s servants would shepherd their people with integrity of heart and lead them with skillful hands for God’s glory.