Psalms23:4 ...thy rod and thy staff they comfort me.
THE SHEPHERD'S ROD AND STAFF
Nomadic shepherds always move around with a rod. Hardly can you see a Fulani herder without holding a rod and a staff.The purpose of the rod is to discipline while the staff is used for direction. Most times, the rod is associated with correction. Sheep have erring tendencies and can go astray. David knew this as an experienced Shepherd. That was why he described the ministry of the spiritual shepherd using the physical attributes of an earthly shepherd.
In Proverbs3:12, Solomon said, "because the LORD disciplines those he loves, as a father the son he delights in". In context, discipline is not punishment or inflicting injury as some maybe thinking. Correction is implied here. The shepherd does not leave the sheep in the pool of mistake. The shepherd is quick to correct. As believers, we can only experience the corrective work of the shepherd when we open our hearts to him in sincerity. Most times, we argue with the Spirit of God when he is prompting us to make amends. Ego and hardness of heart doesn't make us yield to the Shepherd's correction. The Lord is warning us today saying: "As has just been said: "Today, if you hear his voice, do not harden your hearts as you did in the rebellion". (Heb3:15).
The staff is the instrument of direction. A sheep doesn't know the way through the wildernes. He need the shepherd's staff to lead into the place of comfort. Those who think they can figure out things in life always end up making fatal mistakes. There are believers that d not believe God leads. Their believe is that they can figure things out using their head. There's a promise from God to lead and guide you through the wilderness of life. Psalms 32:8 says, "The LORD says, “I will guide you along the best pathway for your life. I will advise you and watch over you". Sheep always wait to hear the instruction for the next step and phase. If you walk in the realities of Psalms 23, you will not lack divine direction.
CONFESSION: I receive correction with all humility and I make the necessary adjustment in Jesus name. My ears and heart are open to divine direction from the shepherd. I shall not go astray In the name of Jesus. I walk in the realities of Psalms23 in the name of Jesus.