[A note from Dr. Wood: The Bible uses comparisons to help us know God. At various times, God is referred to as husband, father, elder brother, friend, counselor, king, judge, priest, and shepherd. The most famous psalm, the twenty-third, speaks of Him as Shepherd. Most of us today have never seen a shepherd at work, but we have all seen firefighters. Here's what Psalm 23 might look like if we understand that God also reveals Himself to as Firefighter. The Firefighter Psalm follows the spirit of the Good Shepherd in Psalm 23, alternatively emphasizing God's presence with us in life or death.]

Psalm 23 for Firefighters The LORD is my firefighter, he spares no effort to rescue me. He runs to me when I am trapped by flames,      he finds me when I have lost all hope,      he carries me in his arms to safety. He finds a path through smoke and fire,      unselfishly concerned for my salvation only. When all exits are blocked and gone,      he remains at my side unto death. I will fear no evil      for you are with me. Your presence and courage,      they comfort me. You give me a chance to live again, to sit at table      with family, friends, and even my enemies. You provide me a fresh start on life,      my joy knows no limits. Surely goodness and mercy will follow me      all the days of my life, And I will dwell in the house of the LORD forever. --by George O. Wood. Copyright 2002.