For the Christian, the recognition and acceptance of the authority of Jesus Christ over his/her life is paramount to his/her well-being, witness and future reward. The staff of the shepherd is the instrument for executing his authority over the direction of the sheep. In Psalm 23, the Lord is called “shepherd.” His “staff” is His authority over each life that “makes me,” “leads me,” “restores my soul,” and “guides me.” And, if we submit to His authority over us, we will be led down the “right” path, finding “the goodness of the Lord in the land of the living” and our eternal home. Selah