February 2, 2009
PROvider and shepherd, FOREVER
Psalm 23
Neal Litton
Central Truth
David's psalm clarifies that God is in charge. Because of this relationship (Shepherd to sheep), David is provided everything (i.e. protection, food, water, and direction).
Key Verse | Psalm 23:4
Even when I must walk through the darkest valley, I fear no danger, for you are with me; your rod and your staff reassure me. (Psalm 23:4)
Psalm 23
The LORD Is My Shepherd
A Psalm of David.
1
The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want.
2
He makes me lie down in green pastures.
He leads me beside still waters.
1
23:2
Hebrew beside waters of rest
3
He restores my soul.
He leads me in paths of righteousness
2
23:3
Or in right paths
for his name's sake.
4
Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death,
3
23:4
Or the valley of deep darkness
I will fear no evil,
for you are with me;
your rod and your staff,
they comfort me.
5
You prepare a table before me
in the presence of my enemies;
you anoint my head with oil;
my cup overflows.
6
Surely
4
23:6
Or Only
goodness and mercy
5
23:6
Or steadfast love
shall follow me
all the days of my life,
and I shall dwell
6
23:6
Or shall return to dwell
in the house of the LORD
forever.
7
23:6
Hebrew for length of days
Dive Deeper | Psalm 23
I continuously struggle with pride and competitiveness. I always want to win and lead others to accomplish the same. I have found three focal points in reading this psalm that have affected my life. First, the Lord is my leader, provider, and shepherd. Second, as His sheep, I need nothing else in life besides following His paths. Lastly, no matter how great the darkness or enemy, the Lord overcomes it and refreshes me all of my days.
When allowing God to lead my path, I can surrender being the best and most competitive. This does not mean I quit. Rather, I have a new goal to obtain, and that is His righteousness. As a leader, He promises to provide and strengthen us. I do not need to do anything except that which comes from God.
As His sheep, I am reminded that all my days I will be provided food and shelter. The Lord provides lush pastures and refreshing waters. I no longer need to search for my own provisions. Not only is this protection provided to me, but it is for all who accept and follow Him.
Anointing was used in the ancient East by thoughtful hosts to refresh and soothe weary travelers. A similar refreshment is experienced in our lives when we study His Word, spend time in prayer with Him, and gather with other like-minded believers in biblical community. Our ultimate refreshment will occur at death when we, as believers in Christ, will enter the Lord's presence forever. Anointing with oil is also used in Scripture as a picture of God's bestowal of the Holy Spirit, which is given to all who trust in Jesus Christ, the Good Shepherd.
It is hard to imagine attempting to succeed in all of these tasks by myself. I cannot nor will I ever reach this magnitude of accomplishment. My focus needs no longer to be on myself but the Lord, who is my shepherd and provider for life.
Discussion Questions
1. Who or what has been shepherding you in your daily walk?
2. How are you being refreshed continually in your daily life?
3. Are you willing to be His sheep?