YAHWEH ROI: THE LORD IS MY SHEPHERD

The Role of the Shepherd

The term Yahweh Roi (yah-WEH roe-EE) translates to "The Lord is My Shepherd." For much of their history, the Hebrews were nomadic, moving from place to place in search of pasture for their herds of sheep, goats, and cattle. The role of shepherd was vital for their livelihood, as it involved keeping the animals from straying, protecting them from thieves and wild animals, and ensuring they had enough food and water.

Shepherding is one of the oldest human occupations, and a family’s wealth was often measured by the number of livestock they owned. Notable figures in the Bible, such as Abel, Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, Moses, and David, were shepherds. Before facing Goliath, David recounted his experience as a shepherd, saying: “I am a shepherd for my father’s sheep. Whenever a lion or a bear came and carried off a sheep from the flock, I went after it, struck it, and rescued the sheep from its mouth” (1 Samuel 17:34-35).

The shepherd had the responsibility to count each animal to ensure none had strayed, and at night, the sheep were kept in enclosures or caves for protection.

In the ancient Near East, "shepherd" became a metaphor for kings and leaders. While Israel’s religious leaders were also called shepherds, they often faced criticism for failing to care for God’s people. The Hebrew Scriptures portray God as the ultimate Shepherd of His people, and in the New Testament, Jesus is presented as the Good Shepherd, who sacrifices His life for the safety of His flock.

---

Praying to Yahweh Roi

Comfort in Psalm 23

One of the most comforting passages in the Bible is Psalm 23:

Yahweh is my Roeh.
I am never in need.
He makes me lie down in green pastures.
He leads me beside peaceful waters.
He renews my soul.

Imagining lush green pastures in places like England contrasts with the dry, rocky landscapes of Israel, where finding pasture was a challenge. Shepherds often moved their flocks through dangerous territory, risking their lives to protect fearful creatures who might easily stray or succumb to predators.

The Shepherd depicted in Psalm 23 cares deeply for His sheep, willing to confront any threat to ensure their safety. This powerful image reassures us of God’s commitment to protect and guide us through life’s challenges.

Reflection on Our Nature

While we find comfort in this image, it also compels us to recognize our own nature. We are the stubborn and foolish sheep that need His guidance. As we meditate on God as our Shepherd, we should express gratitude for how He has led us through difficult times and provided for us even in barren places.

When you pray to Yahweh Roi, remember that He is never surprised by your weaknesses. He watches over you day and night, feeding you and guiding you along the path of righteousness.

Yahweh Roi, thank you for your patience with me, for leading me despite my stubbornness and for keeping me safe despite my fears. You know where the green pastures are and how to protect me from straying. Grant me the grace to follow your lead and trust in your care.

---

Promises Associated with Yahweh Roi

1. “I will take care of my sheep and lead them to rest, declares Adonay Yahweh. I will look for those that are lost, bring back those that have strayed away, bandage those that are injured, and strengthen those that are sick. I will destroy those that are fat and strong. I will take care of my sheep fairly.” (Ezekiel 34:15-16)

2. “I am the good shepherd. I know my sheep as the Father knows me. My sheep know me as I know the Father. So I give my life for my sheep. I also have other sheep that are not from this pen. I must lead them. They, too, will respond to my voice. So they will be one flock with one shepherd.” (John 10:14-16)

---

Conclusion

Yahweh Roi embodies the profound and nurturing relationship between God and His people. As the Good Shepherd, He provides guidance, protection, and care, especially during difficult and dangerous times. In recognizing Jesus as our Shepherd, we acknowledge our dependence on Him and embrace the promise of His unwavering support and love. Trusting in His guidance, we can navigate life’s challenges, knowing that we are never alone and that He leads us toward abundant pastures and still waters.