From the book A Shepherd Looks at Psalm 23 by Philip Keller, it is evident that taking care of sheep is a full time job. However, at times the sheep are grazing or resting and the shepherd has time to himself. During such times, David prepared himself in three ways: 1) In music. David practiced the harp, or lyre and got so good at it, that he was called to play before the king. This was a personal skill that David could and would use to both worship God and serve others. We all have benefited from this investment through the Psalms. 2) In military. David practiced slinging stones. He got so good that he was confident he could hit the one vulnerable spot on Goliath. This was a gift to use in selfless service to protect others. What skills have you developed to protect those under your care? 3) In meditation. David spent lots of time thinking through Scripture. He said, ?O how love I thy law. It is my meditation all the day.? (Psalm 119:97) This was a skill to offer to God for it both honors God?s gift of His Word, and shows God you are serious about learning His ways. In the next few entries we will look at these three in a little more depth.