1. Shepherdless people (1-3)

When there are no shepherds, people wander without direction; they are easy prey for oppressors. Idols plant false hope and diviners give false direction and false comfort. But the Lord is a Good Shepherd. He sends rain in the springtime.

2. From Judah will come the cornerstone (4-12)

The cornerstone from Judah is the Messiah--Jesus. He is God who comes personally to lead his people. He is a shepherd who strengthens and saves and restores his people. He is compassionate. The people of Israel rejected God and worshiped idols after they entered the Promised Land. So God punished them by scattering them throughout the world. But God never gives up. He looks forward to the time when his people will repent and return to him. He welcomes and restores all who come to him.

Application: Lord, raise up shepherds and Bible teachers for these shepherdless times. Come and be the cornerstone of your church and of our lives.
One Word: The Lord is my shepherd