Day 1

The Good Peace

Shepherds bring peace to their flocks through consistent care, protecting them from predators, and guiding them to safe pastures. In a world of hurry, pressure, and performance, the Good Shepherd offers us peace and rest.

Key Verse: Psalm 23:2
OT Shepherd: Isaac
NT Verse: John 14:27

Open this time in prayer, asking God to calm and bless your child as they settle into camp. Ask God to guide you into His Word today.

Over the next few days, we will embrace the theme of shepherding from several different biblical perspectives, all wrapped around Psalm 23.

We will hear the heart of David — a shepherd boy who became Israel's most famous king. He wrote Psalm 23.
We will learn from the lives of Old Testament shepherds — Isaac, Jacob, Amos, Abraham, and Moses.
We will take moments to behold Jesus, the Good Shepherd.
We will gain perspective as parents who shepherd our kids toward Him.
We can reflect on ourselves, and our children, as sheep in need of the Good Shepherd.

Write out the best definition for the role of a shepherd, including necessary qualities. How do these qualities and responsibilities relate similarly to those of parents?

Read · Genesis 26:15-21

Not long before Isaac's conflicts over the wells his father had dug, God had reminded him of the covenant He had made with Abraham. Surely this was fresh on Isaac's mind as he came across well after well, all filled in with dirt. Abraham's legacy and the agency of God in the area was being ignored.

What frustrations do you think Isaac likely felt as he opened the wells again only to receive opposition? Where do you sense similar frustrations in your own life?

Read Genesis 26:22-25 to see how Isaac responded. Rather than fuming because things weren't what he expected, Isaac responded with humility and trusted God to provide. Then when God did, Isaac worshiped Him.

How do you see God bringing peace to Isaac in the midst of trying circumstances? How do you think God wants to bring peace to you?

Read · John 14:27

Read · Psalm 23:1-2

What thing do you most long for, offered by the Good Shepherd, Jesus? Nourishment? Rest? Peace? Stillness? Refreshing?

What habits and distractions keep you from experiencing the peace of nourishing green pastures and still waters for your soul?

Where is God asking you to trust His provision? Is He asking you to trust Him more with an aspect of your child's life that you are currently overthinking or fearful about? Ask God to help you rest in knowing He has a wonderful plan for your child.

What is one simple way you can provide a place and time of peace in your regular family routine?

Pray for your child to begin to sense God's peace in new ways and develop a lasting appetite for the green pastures and still waters He brings.

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