Psalms 78:71

“From following the ewes great with young he brought him to feed Jacob his people, and Israel his inheritance.”

Context:Psalm 78 is a lengthy psalm attributed to Asaph, one of the chief musicians in King David’s time. It serves as a historical lesson for the Israelites, recounting the faithfulness of God throughout their history and highlighting their repeated failures to trust and obey Him. This particular verse, verse 71, focuses on God’s choice of David as the shepherd and leader of His people.

Symbolism:In this verse, the imagery of a shepherd is used to describe David’s role as the leader of Israel. The phrase “from following the ewes great with young” refers to David’s humble beginnings as a shepherd boy, tending to his father’s flock. This imagery conveys the idea that David was chosen by God and trained through his experiences as a shepherd to lead and care for the nation of Israel.

God’s Choice:The verse emphasizes that it was God who brought David from shepherding the sheep to shepherding the people of Israel. God saw David’s heart and his potential for leadership, even when others might have overlooked him. This reminds us that God’s ways are not always the same as human ways. He often chooses unlikely individuals to fulfill His purposes, as He did with David, who became one of the greatest kings of Israel.

Feeding Jacob and Israel:The verse mentions that David was brought to feed Jacob his people and Israel his inheritance. This statement reflects David’s role as the shepherd of God’s people, providing guidance, protection, and nourishment for them. Just as a shepherd cares for his flock, David cared for the well-being and spiritual nourishment of the Israelites, ensuring they followed God’s ways and were protected from harm.

Application:Psalm 78:71 serves as a reminder of God’s sovereignty in choosing leaders and His ability to work through ordinary individuals to accomplish extraordinary things. It encourages us to be faithful and diligent in whatever task or role we find ourselves in, knowing that God can use our experiences, no matter how insignificant they may seem, to prepare us for His purposes.

• Psalm 78:71 serves as a reminder of God’s sovereignty in choosing leaders and His ability to work through ordinary individuals to accomplish extraordinary things. It encourages us to be faithful and diligent in whatever task or role we find ourselves in, knowing that God can use our experiences, no matter how insignificant they may seem, to prepare us for His purposes.

Additionally, this verse highlights the importance of servant leadership, where leaders are called to care for and serve those under their charge. As followers of Christ, we are also called to be shepherds in our own spheres of influence, demonstrating love, care, and guidance to those around us.

In conclusion, Psalm 78:71 reminds us of God’s faithfulness in choosing and equipping David as the shepherd and leader of Israel. It encourages us to trust in God’s sovereignty, follow His guidance, and faithfully fulfill the roles He has entrusted to us.