REFLECTIONS ON PSALM 23

REFLECTIONS ON PSALM 23


In a consumer –oriented society, it is extremely difficult to hear the simple but radical message of Psalm 23: GOD IS THE ONLY NECESSITY OF LIFE!

While verse 1 is translated “I shall not lack nothing,” the traditional translation preserved by the NIV and the NRSV is particularly appropriate in a culture that teaches people to want everything.

Driven by greed rather than need, we can hardly imagine having only the necessities of life: food, drink, and shelter and protection.

Clever advertisers have succeeded in convincing us that what former generations considered incredible luxuries are now basic necessities.

To say in our prosperous context that God is the only necessity of life sounds hopelessly quaint and naïve.

Then again, the words of Jesus also strike us as naïve: “Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or what you will drink, or about your body, what you will wear, but seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, all these things will be given to you as well.” (Matthew 6:25,33)

In effect, to make Psalm 23 our words is to affirm that we do not need to worry about our lives or our deaths.

God will provide, and God’s provision is grounded in the reality of God’s reign.

The proper response to simple good news of Psalm 23 and Jesus Christ is to trust God.

But this is precisely the rub.

In a secular society, we are encouraged to trust first ourselves and to work first to secure our own lives and futures.

Psalm 23 thus challenges us to affirm with the psalmist: THE LORD IS MY SHEPHERD, I SHALL NOT WANT.

To say that means to live humbly and gratefully as a child of God.

The third stanza of Isaac Watt’s beautiful metrical version of Psalm 23 expresses eloquently the simple truth that Psalm 23 communicates and commends to us:

The sure provisions of my God,
Attend me all my days,
O may Your House be my abode,
And all my work be praise.
There would I find a settled nest,
While others go and come,
No more a stranger or a guest,
But like a child at home.

Not only does Watts’s paraphrase capture the childlike trust articulated by Psalm 23, recalling Jesus’ words about entering the reign of God “like a little child.” (Mark 10:15), but also it calls to our attention the communal dimension of Psalm 23.

To be child at home means inevitably to be part of a family, to share community around a table.

Thus we are led to reflect on what it means to be apart of God’s household.

The implications are profound and radical: WE ARE NOT OUR OWN! WE BELONG TO EACH OTHER!

In his book “God the Economist,” M. Douglas Meeks recognizes the radical implications of Psalm 23.

He quotes Aubrey R. Johnson’s rendering of Psalm 23:6: “Yea, I shall be pursued in unfailing kindness everyday of my life, finding a home in the Household of Yahweh for many a long year.”

Because, as Psalm 23 affirms, God is the source of all food and drink and security, because we belong first and forever to God’s household, our lives are transformed.

Daily realities are not to be taken for granted and certainly not to be treated as rewards we have earned.

Psalm 23, like the Lord’s Supper, becomes finally an invitation to live under God’s rule and in solidarity with all God’s children.

Thus to make Psalm 23 our own is a profoundly radical affirmation of faith that transforms our lives and our world.

To be sure, Psalm 23 is to be heard in the midst of death and dying, but it is also to be heard amid the ordinary daily activities of living.

And it gives daily activities an extraordinary significance, for it invites us to share daily bread with all God’s people.

It is inevitable that Christians hear in Psalm 23 testimony to Jesus Christ.

Jesus became the gracious host who prepared a table that reconciles enemies and offers life.

NOTE: Mark 14:22-25. Interestingly, Mark 14:27 alludes to Zechariah 13:7, a passage about sheep and shepherds.

In a story with obvious eucharistic overtones, Jesus feeds people. (Mark 6:39)

The crowd is “to sit down on the green grass,’ a detail that recalls Psalm 23:2.

That the allusion is not coincidental is suggested by Mark’s description of Jesus’ motivation for having compassion on the crowd: “they were like sheep without a shepherd.” (Mark 6:34)

Jesus serves as both host and shepherd, acting out the two metaphors of Psalm 23.

Jesus is cast even more clearly in the role of shepherd in John 10:17.

As in Psalm 23, the shepherd:

Leads the sheep (John 10:3)

Providing food (John 10:9)

Protection (John 10:12-13)

For the purpose of sustaining life itself (John 10:10)

And Jesus says specifically, “I am the good shepherd.” (John 10:11, 14)

Interesting too in John 10 is the enigmatic mention of “other sheep that do not belong to this fold.” (John 10:16)

Does this refer to Christians beyond the Johannine community?

Does this refer more broadly to adherents of other world religions?

The solution is unclear, but in the light of the communal conclusion of Psalm 23, especially in view of the conclusion of Psalm 22, where “all the ends of the earth” and “all the families of the nations” are to “turn to the Lord” and “worship Him.” (Psalm 22:27)

It is worthy of note that John 10 envisions God’s household in very open terms, with room perhaps for “enemies and even for “all the families of the nations.” (Psalm 23:5)(Psalm 22:27)

This thrust toward universality is present too in the relationship between Jesus and Psalm 23:4; “You are with me.”
According to Matthew, Jesus is to be named “Emmanuel, God is with us”

This affirmation provides a frame for the Gospel, the final words of which are “ I am with you always, even to the end of the age.” (Matthew 28:20)

This final affirmation of Emanuel is in the context of Jesus’ commission to “make disciples of all nations.” (Matthew 28:19)

God intends for His household to include “the ends of the earth.” (Psalm 22:27)

In short, in New Testament terms, Jesus is the Shepherd, host, Emmanuel.

When Psalm 23 is heard in the context of Psalm 22 and of Jesus Christ, its profoundly radical implications are even clearer:

GOD IS WITH US, BUT GOD IS NOT OURS TO OWN. THE GOD WHO SHEPHERDS US TO LIFE ALSO GIVES LIFE TO THE WORLD; THE TABLE AT WHICH WE ARE HOSTED IS ONE TO WHICH THE WHOLE WORLD IS INVITED.


The Lord (Yahweh) is my Shepherd, therefore I shall not want for:

REST: He makes me lie down in green pastures.

REFRESHMENT: He leads me beside the quiet waters.

RESTORATION: He restores my soul

GUIDANCE: He leads me in the paths of righteousness.

COURAGE: I will fear no evil, for You are with me.

COMFORT: Your rod and Your staff they comfort me.

SUPPLY: You prepare a table before me.

PROTECTION: In the presence of my enemies.

POWER: You anoint my head with oil.

GOODNESS AND MERCY: My cup runs over. Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the day of my life.

FOREVER: I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever.



I SHALL NOT LACK

I shall not lack rest or provision. Why? “He makes me lie down in green pastures.”

I shall not lack peace. Why? “He leads me besides the still water.”

I shall not lack restoration and encouragement when I faint; fail, or fall. Why? “He restores my soul.”

I shall not lack guidance and fellowship. Why? “He guides me in the paths of righteousness.”

I shall not lack courage when my way is dark. Why? “Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I fear no evil.”

I shall not lack companionship. Why? “For You are with me.”

I shall not lack constant comfort. Why? “Your rod and staff, they comfort me.”

I shall not lack for protection and honor. Why? “You prepare at table before me in the presence of my enemies.”

I shall not lack power. Why? “You anoint my head with oil.”

I shall not lack abundance. Why? “My cup overflows.”

I shall not lack God’s perpetual presence. Why? “Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life.”

I shall not lack security. Why? “And I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever.”


TRAITS OF GOD IN PSALM 23

In his book “The Names of God,” by Elmer Towns, it is interesting to note that there are other names of God throughout Psalm 23:

The Lord is my Shepherd (vs 1) JEHOVAH ROHI THE LORD IS MY SHEPHERD (Psalm 23:1)

I shall not want (vs 1) JEHOVAL JIREH THE LORD WHO PROVIDES (Genesis 22:14)

He leads me beside still waters JEHOVAH SHALOM THE LORD OUR (vs 2) PEACE (Judges 6:24)

He restores my soul (vs 3) JEHOVAL ROPHE THE LORD OUR HEALER (Exodus 15:26)

He leads me in the paths JEHOVAH TSIDKENU THE LORD OUR of righteousness (vs 3) RIGHTEOUSNESS (Jeremiah 23:6)

I will fear no evil (vs 4) JEHOVAH NISSI THE LORD OUR BANNER (Exodus 17:15)

You are with me (vs 4) JEHOVAH SHAMMAH THE LORD IS THERE (Ezekiel 48:35)

You anoint my head with oil (vs 5) JEHOVAH MEDADDISHKEHN THE LORD
WHO SANCTIFIES (Exodus 31:13)


ARTICLES FROM “OUR DAILY BREAD” ON PSALM 23


April 19, 2007

The Peace-Of-Mind Game

READ: Psalm 23

The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. —Psalm 23:1

In her down-to-earth book More Than Sparrows, Mary Welch tells of her discussion about worry with a group of teenagers. Although they were Christians, they were as worried as unbelievers about the common things of life. As she lovingly listened to them, an unusual idea came to her for a game they could play. It went like this:
Instead of saying, “I’m worried,” stop and say, “The Lord is my Shepherd.” Then add, “So I’m worried to death!” The students laughed at the absurdity of the idea, but they all promised to play this new “peace-of-mind” game.

Later, Mary received a phone call from a young woman who had been paralyzed by worry over an exam she had been dreading to take. She said, “I must tell you how the game helped me trust God today. As I froze with worry, I remembered to say, ‘The Lord is my Shepherd . . . so I’m afraid I’ll fail!’ Suddenly I felt the strangest peace of mind. I laughed at myself, then I took the exam—and I passed!”
Saying “The Lord is my Shepherd, and I am worried to death” is more than a mind game to point out the absurdity of worry. God can use this contradiction to bring us to a fuller trust in Him.— Joanie Yoder

Why worry when you can pray?Trust Jesus, He’ll be your stay;Don’t be a “doubting Thomas,” rest fully on His promise.Why worry when you can pray? —Peterson© Renewal 1977 Singspiration, Inc.

Worry is the interest you pay on borrowed trouble.


November 9, 2004

Hope For Worriers

READ: Psalm 23

The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. —Psalm 23:1

Everyone worries occasionally, but I was once a "professional worrier." My daily preoccupation was mulling over my worries, one by one.

Then one day I had to face an uncomfortable medical test, and I was frantic with fear. Finally I decided that during the test I would focus on the first five words of Psalm 23, "The Lord is my shepherd." This exercise in meditation not only calmed me, but I gained several fresh insights. Later, as I slowly meditated through the entire psalm, the Lord gave me more insights.

Eventually I was able to share at conferences what the Lord had taught me.

If you're a worrier, there's hope for you too! Rick Warren, author of The Purpose-Driven Life, wrote: "When you think about a problem over and over in your mind, that's called worry. When you think about God's Word over and over in your mind, that's meditation. If you know how to worry, you already know how to meditate!"

The more we meditate on God's Word, the less we need to worry. In Psalm 23, David meditated on his great Shepherd instead of worrying. Later, God chose him to be the shepherd of His people (Psalm 78:70-72). God uses those who can honestly say, "The Lord is my shepherd."— Joanie Yoder

When fear and worry test your faithAnd anxious thoughts assail,Remember God is in controlAnd He will never fail. —Sper

The more we think about God's Word, the less we'll think about our worries.


March 4, 2006

Another Walk With Whitaker

READ: Psalm 23

He leads me. —Psalm 23:2

My dog Whitaker and I like to take early-morning walks through the woods. He runs ahead while I amble along, meditating or praying. I know where we’re going; he’s not sure. I stay on the trail and he trots ahead—sniffing, investigating, and taking occasional forays into the forest to chase real or imagined chipmunks.

Though Whit is ahead, I’m leading. Every so often he checks to see where I am. If I’ve turned back toward home or gone on to another trail, I hear his pounding feet and panting breath as he races to catch up with me. If I hide behind some brush, he runs to the last place he saw me and tracks me down. Then we walk the trail together again.

It’s like that with God’s leading. He knows the way because He has prepared the way. But sometimes we may not see Him—so we do our best to go where He wants by following the guidance of His Word. Other times it may seem as if He is hidden from us. His pace may not be as fast as we would like, or we wish He would slow down.

Just as Whitaker keeps looking back at me, we need to look to God and His Word at every important juncture we come to. We must rely on the direction of His Spirit.
That’s what I thought about today while I was walking with Whitaker.— David C. Egner

Lead me, if Thou wilt, dear Master,Where the whispering waters flow;Guide me through the soft green pastures,Let me all Thy goodness know. —Rae

If you want God to lead you, be willing to follow.


March 29, 2007

Noon

READ: Psalm 23

He makes me to lie down in green pastures; He leads me beside the still waters. —Psalm 23:2

Our office is a busy place where things sometimes feel like they are moving at breakneck speed. This often involves meeting after meeting, hallway conferences, and an avalanche of e-mail.
In the midst of this extreme busyness, I sometimes feel the need to escape, to decompress. My response? To create a quiet place. On those days when I have no lunch meeting, I retreat to the quiet of my car. I grab some lunch and sit in my car, where I can read, listen to music, think, pray—and be refreshed.

I think this is the essence of what the shepherd-psalmist points to in Psalm 23:2. He sees the Good Shepherd bringing him to “still waters”—that is, waters to rest by. It pictures a quiet place, a retreat from the pressures of life, where you can rest in the presence of the Shepherd of your heart and be strengthened for what lies ahead. Even Jesus withdrew to a solitary place to pray and commune with His Father (Mark 1:35).

We all need retreats in our lives, not only because of the overwhelming nature of life, but because of our dependence on the resources of the Master. In our fast-paced days, it is essential to find a place of solitude, “a place of quiet rest, near to the heart of God.” Where’s yours?— Bill Crowder

There is a place of quiet rest,Near to the heart of God,A place where sin cannot molest,Near to the heart of God. —McAfee

When we draw near to God our minds are refreshed and our strength is renewed!


May 30, 2003

Finding Rest

READ: Psalm 23

He restores my soul; He leads me in the paths of righteousness for His name's sake. —Psalm 23:3

According to a survey conducted by an insurance company, one of every six workers in the US feels too busy to take all the vacation days he or she has earned. Even though studies show that a week's holiday each year can dramatically reduce stress and the risk of heart attack, many people just keep working.

A vacation can be good for body and soul. But many people don't have the luxury of time away from work and daily responsibilities. What can we do when we must remain in demanding circumstances?

Psalm 23 paints a beautiful word picture of a caring shepherd, secure sheep, and a tranquil scene of quiet meadows and still waters. But it is the Lord, our shepherd, who gives rest, not the green grass or the flowing stream. "He restores my soul; He leads me in the paths of righteousness for His name's sake" (v.3).

Rest is a place of peace that our spirits find in God. Neither the presence of those who oppose us nor the dark valley of death can keep us from what hymnwriter Cleland McAfee called "a place of quiet rest, near to the heart of God." Through prayer and meditation on His Word, we can commune with Him. In the Lord's presence we can experience the rest and renewal we so desperately need.— David C. McCasland

There is a place of comfort sweet,Near to the heart of God, A place where we our Savior meet,Near to the heart of God. —McAfee

Spending quiet time with God will bring quiet rest from God.


April 6, 2004

Valley Of The Shadow

READ: Psalm 23

Though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil; for You are with me. —Psalm 23:4

Darkness upon darkness. Sorrow upon sorrow. Pain upon pain. Anguish upon anguish. That's death.

Death is a fearful visitor, snatching away people who are precious to us and leaving us behind to mourn, grieve, and wonder. It blocks the light that before had shined so freely and easily on our lives.

Whether we're facing the prospect of dying, or dealing with the death of a loved one, death can be devastating. It can sap our energy, change our plans, overwhelm our soul, alter our outlook, test our faith, steal our joy, and challenge our assumptions about life's purposes.

When we walk through the deep valley, we feel swallowed up by the shadow and come face-to-face with fear. The frantic emptiness of our loss threatens the comfort that previously originated from our trust in God, and so we grow afraid. Afraid of our future. Afraid to enjoy life again.
Yet in that valley, under that shadow, we can say to the Lord, "I will fear no evil; for You are with me" (Psalm 23:4). His loving arms never let us go. He is always with us.

Slowly at first, but most assuredly, He provides comfort and release from the darkness. He gives light. He leads us out. Eventually, we escape the valley of the shadow.— Dave Branon

We need not ponder death with fear,Though what's ahead we cannot see;For we who put our faith in ChristLook forward to eternity. —Sper

Death separates us for a time; Christ will reunite us forever.


August 15, 2001

'Here I Come'

READ: Psalm 23:1-6

Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil. --Psalm 23:4

When I was about 10 years old, I climbed a big pine tree in our yard. Grabbing the topmost branch, I pulled myself up to gain the highest vantage point possible. Suddenly the tip of the old pine snapped and I came plummeting down, landing flat on my back. The impact knocked the wind out of me. As I lay gasping for breath, I thought I was dying—but I wasn't alarmed. In fact, I can recall thinking, I'm going to heaven. Just before lapsing into unconsciousness, I said, "Father, here I come."

My dad was reading under a tree nearby and heard me come crashing down. Rushing over, he picked me up and carried me into the house. How surprised I was to open my eyes and find myself on the couch instead of in heaven!

That experience taught me at a young age that the Christian can have peace even in the valley of the shadow of death. For believers, "to be absent from the body" is "to be present with the Lord" (2 Corinthians 5:8). As children of God, we can live each day with the assurance that come what may, whether we live or die, we are the Lord's.

If you know Christ as your Savior, you too can experience a wonderful peace—even when you are called to walk through the "valley of the shadow" (Psalm 23:4). — Richard De Haan

God holds our future in His handsAnd gives us every breath;Just knowing that He's by our sideAllays our fear of death. —Sper

If you live for eternity, you can die with serenity.


June 1, 2005

God Said That

READ: Psalm 23

You are with me; Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me. —Psalm 23:4

When 8-year-old Jacob visited his Grampa in the hospital, he came with his own custom-made "Get Well" card. It was an 81/2" x 11" piece of stiff white paper folded in half. On the front he had written, "Hope you feel better soon." On the inside, in large block letters, was this message:
I will be with youwherever you go.

There was no Scripture reference, so Jacob added these words: "God said that." He wanted to be sure I didn't expect him to be at my side during my entire hospital stay.

That added note conveyed an unintended and deeper truth that brought a smile to my face and comfort to my heart. A hospital can be a lonely place. It's a world of unfamiliar faces, first-time medical procedures, and uncertain diagnoses. But it's in just such a setting that God can quiet an anxious heart and give assurance that He'll go with you down every hall, through every new door, into any unknown future—yes, even through "the valley of the shadow of death" (Psalm 23:4).

Maybe you have had an unexpected setback or loss. Your future is unknown. Trusting Jesus as your Savior and Lord, you can be sure of this: He will go with you wherever you go. You can believe it. God said that! — Dennis J. De Haan

Whenever I feel that Christ is near,All cares and sorrows flee;He is my strength, my hope, my life,He's all in all to me. —Lewis

No danger can come so near the Christian that God is not nearer.


January 23, 1996

Dying Grace

READ: Psalm 23:1-6

Though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil; for You are with me. --Psalm 23:4

Several years ago I read a pamphlet that quoted the dying words of various people who did not profess faith in Jesus Christ. The English atheist Thomas Hobbes said, "I am taking a fearful leap into the dark!" The French infidel Voltaire cried out, "I am abandoned by God and man; I shall go to hell!" Sir Francis Newport wailed in anguish, "Oh, eternity, eternity forever and forever! Oh, the unsufferable pangs of hell!"

What a sobering contrast to the last words of people who knew and loved Christ as their Lord and Savior. Dwight L. Moody said, "This is glorious! Earth recedes; heaven is opening; God is calling me!" Sir David Brewster declared, "I will see Jesus--see Him as He is. I have had the light for many years. Oh, how bright it is! I feel so safe, so satisfied!" And these words from a man being burned at the stake: "Blessed be the time that ever I was born for this day. We shall not lose our lives in this fire," he said to his fellow martyrs, "but only change them for something better."

Child of God, even if physical pain and heartache are a part of our closing days, the heavenly Father will give us dying grace. When we pass through that dark valley, we need not fear. The Great Shepherd will be with us. — Richard De Haan

Thy rod and staff shall cheer meIn death's dark vale and shade,For Thou wilt then be near me--I shall not be afraid. --Ewing

Those who truly fear God need not fear death.


April 18, 2001

Light Beyond The Valley

READ: 2 Corinthians 5:1-8

Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil; for You are with me. --Psalm 23:4

Death comes eventually to us all. Yet, for the Christian, the dark door of death is to be viewed as only a shadow. As frightening as death may appear, on the other side is the bright and shining gate that leads to life—eternity with Jesus!

Author William H. Ridgeway recalls that when he was a boy he and his friends would pick berries. After filling their baskets, they would wait beside a nearby railroad track. As the sun was sinking in the west, a train would come by and "run over them." Of course the iron monster with its thundering noise and screaming whistle didn't actually run over them at all. It was only the shadow that passed over them.

There they sat, knowing there was no danger but shivering in anticipation at the approaching locomotive and boxcars. As the train swept by them, they were in its shadow for just a few moments and then it was gone. The setting sun bathed them in a golden glow as they walked to the inviting warmth of home. What a wonderful illustration of what it means for the Christian to "walk through the valley of the shadow of death" (Psalm 23:4).

We need not fear the chilling shadow of death—for the Lord is with us (v.4), and we have a home with Him waiting for us just beyond (2 Corinthians 5:1-8). — Henry G. Bosch

Say not it's a dreadful journeyWhen the Savior leads the way;It's but passing through the shadowsTo the land of endless day! —Bosch

For the Christian, death is the last shadow before heaven's dawn.


December 16, 1998

Our Forever Home

READ: John 14:1-6

I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever. --Psalm 23:6

Night was falling and the weather deteriorating as I began the long drive home. The snow that had been falling lightly became heavier. Gale-force winds soon whipped it into a blinding curtain in front of my car. Only intense concentration and prayer kept me on the road.As the 21/2-hour drive stretched to 3, then 4, my muscles ached and my eyes burned. Never had home sounded so good!

When I finally walked though the doorway and collapsed in a chair, I felt great relief.
Sometimes our journey as followers of Christ is like that snowy drive. We struggle through long days of hard work and difficulty. When disappointment and sorrow come, our thoughts go to those wonderful passages of the Bible that describe our home in heaven. It heartens us to think of entering the Lord's presence where we will abide forever.

C. S. Lewis wrote a wonderful allegory called The Chronicles of Narnia in which he describes the unicorn's first glimpse of heaven. The unicorn exclaims, "I have come home at last! This is my real country! I belong here. This is the land I've been looking for all my life."
In a small way, that expresses how we will feel when we reach our forever home. — David C. Egner

To run life's grueling race, to win the lasting prize--To finally succeed in this endeavor--Look to the day you'll gaze into the Savior's eyesAnd understand you're home with Him forever. --Gustafson

Heaven's delights will far outweigh earth's difficulties.















RESOURCES:

Elmer Towns, “The Names of God”

Holman Bible Dictionary

Philip Yancy, “A Shepherd Looks at the 23rd Psalm”

Dr. Harold E. Jones, “The Ministry of the Twenty Third Psalm”

Discovery House Publishers, “The Lord is My Shepherd.”

Verse 6: Surely Goodness And Mercy Shall Follow Me All The Days Of My Life, And I Shall Dwell In The House Of The Lord Forever

Surely Goodness And Mercy Shall Follow Me

Throughout the study of this Psalm continuous emphasis has been put upon the care exercised by the attentive shepherd. It has been stressed how essential to the welfare of the sheep is the rancher’s diligent effort and labor. All the benefits enjoyed by a flock under skilled and loving management have been drawn in bold lines.

Now, all of this is summed up here by the Psalmist in one brave but simple statement: “Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life.”

SURELY

In the marginal notes of some translations, the word translated “surely” is “only.”

“Only” goodness and mercy shall follow me.”

Not “only” good and mercy shall follow, the literal translation of “follow is to “pursue and overtake.”

We can read it this way: Only goodness and mercy shall follow, pursue, and overtake me.

How confidently he counts upon the continuance of God’s favors. In verse 1 the said, “I shall not want;” but now he speaks more positively more comprehensively: “Surely (only) goodness and mercy shall follow me, pursue me and overtake me all the days of my life.

What’s following you?

GOODNESS

Psalm 25:7

“Do not remember the sins of my youth or my transgressions;
According to Thy lovingkindness remember Thou me,
For Thy goodness' sake, O Lord.” (NASB)

Psalm 31:19

“How great is Thy goodness,
Which Thou hast stored up for those who fear Thee,
Which Thou hast wrought for those who take refuge in Thee,
Before the sons of men! “ (NASB)

Psalm 27:13

“I would have despaired unless I had believed that I would see the goodness of the Lord
In the land of the living.” (NASB)

Romans 2:4

“Or do you think lightly of the riches of His kindness and forbearance and patience, not knowing that the kindness of God leads you to repentance?” (NASB) Romans 2:4

What is the “goodness” of God?

In contrast to the Greek view of the “the good” as an ideal, the biblical concept focuses on concrete experiences of what God has done and is doing in the lives of His people.

Scripture affirms that God does good. (I Chronicles 16:34)(Psalm 119:68)

The goodness of God is experienced in the goodness of God’s creative work. (Genesis 1:31)

His goodness is also experienced in His saving acts:

The liberation of Israel from captivity. (Exodus 18:9)

The return of the remnant from captivity. (Ezra 7:9)

In personal deliverance. (Psalm 34:8)

In salvation. ((Philippians 1:6)

God’s goodness is extended to His:

Name (Psalm 52:9)

His promises (Joshua 21:45)

His commands (Psalm 119:39)

His gifts (James 1:17)

His providential shaping of events (Genesis 50:20)(Romans 8:28)

Jesus, when asked about being good, said that only God is good.

MERCY

In some translations, the word “lovingkindness” is used but it still expresses the word mercy.

Psalm 25:4-7

“Make me know Thy ways, O Lord;
Teach me Thy paths.
Lead me in Thy truth and teach me,
For Thou art the God of my salvation;
For Thee I wait all the day.
Remember, O Lord, Thy compassion and Thy lovingkindnesses,
For they have been from of old.
Do not remember the sins of my youth or my transgressions;
According to Thy lovingkindness remember Thou me,
For Thy goodness' sake, O Lord.” (NASB)

Isaiah 54:10

"For the mountains may be removed and the hills may shake,
But My lovingkindness will not be removed from you,
And My covenant of peace will not be shaken,"
Says the Lord who has compassion on you. (NASB)

Isaiah 14:1

“When the Lord will have compassion on Jacob, and again choose Israel, and settle them in their own land, then strangers will join them and attach themselves to the house of Jacob.” (NASB)

What is “mercy?”

Mercy is a personal characteristic of care for the needs of others. The biblical concept of mercy always involves help to those who are in need or distress. Such help covers a broad range, from assistance in finding a bride to God’s forgiveness of sins.

It is interesting in the story in the gospel of Luke that when the publican prayed, what did he say? “Be merciful to me, a sinner.”

A wide vocabulary is employed in the original languages to express these concepts, and an even wider vocabulary is found in English translations.

There are three main Hebrew root words that involve the idea of mercy.

The first one is “racham/rachamim/” This word family consistently has the meaning of compassion, or showing mercy, or pity.

Related to the word for womb, it may have the connotation of a mother’s affection or of the bond between siblings. This sense of a mother’s compassion for her child is found in 1 Kings 3:26, and a similar expression describes Joseph’s feeling for his brothers in Genesis 43:30.

Likewise, God’s mercy is often likened to family relationships:

As a father to this children (Jeremiah 31:20)(Psalm 103:13)

A husband to a wife (Isaiah 54:6-8)(Hosea 2:19)

A brother to a brother (Amos 1:11)

Even as a mother toward a nursing child (Isaiah 49:15)

God’s mercy is bound up with His covenant with Israel. He is merciful to them because He chose them. (Exodus 33:19)(2 Kings 13:23)

God’s mercy is never just a feeling but is expressed by His action:

Providing for Israel in the wilderness (Nehemiah 9:19)(Isaiah 49:10)

Delivering Israel from enemies (Psalm 69:16-21)((Psalm 79:8-11)

When Israel turned from God, He showed no pity (Isaiah 9:17)(Jeremiah 13:14)

On the other hand He is a forgiving God and shows mercy to a penitent people (Psalm 25: 4-7)(Lamentations 3:31-33)

He is merciful in restoring the nation (Psalm 102:13)(Ezekiel 39:25)

He is merciful in renewing His friendship with them (Hosea 2:19, 23)

God’s mercy is the very source of His people’s life (Psalm 103:4((Psalm 119:77, 156)

The second Hebrew word for mercy is “hesed.” It is used to describe a variety of human relationships:

A husband and a wife (Genesis 24: 49)

Father and son (Genesis 47:29)

Host and guest (Rahab and the spies; Joshua 2:12-14)

Friends like David and Jonathan (1 Samuel 20:8, 14-17)

A King and his subjects (2 Samuel 2:5)

Also like “racham,” it expresses itself in action:

Rahab delivered the spies

Jonathan protected David from Saul.

The relationship is always reciprocal. One who experiences the “hesed” of another is to reciprocate when the opportunity presents itself. Thus, the spies promised protection for Rahab, and David pledged to protect the house of Jonathan.

An element of covenantal fidelity was involved. An element of mercy was involved. Each sought to meet the other’s need. Since one can scarcely meet a need of God, this covenantal aspect of mercy was expressed in God’s requirement to show mercy to others. This was often coupled with a command for justice. (Micah 6:8; compare with Hosea 12:6; Zechariah 7:9)

God expects His people to show “hesed” to one another because He shows “hesed” to them, to individuals such as:

Abraham (Genesis 24:12)
Jacob (Genesis 32:10)
David (2 Samuel 7:15)
Job (Job 10:12)

Above all, He was merciful to His chosen people Israel. (Exodus 15:13)(Psalm 107:8, 15, 21, 31)

The linkage of God’s covenant and His “hesed” is explicit in such phrases as “keeping covenant and showing “hesed.” (1 Kings 8:23)(Deuteronomy 7:9)

A final characteristic of God’s “hesed” is its permanence. (Psalm 25:6)((Psalm 103:17)

This is the Hebrew word used for mercy in Psalm 23:6.

This is often expressed in the set phrase, “for the Lord is good, His mercy (hesed) is everlasting” or “his mercy endureth forever.” (Psalm 100:5)(Ezra 3:11)

The third Hebrew word family involving mercy and pity is “chanan/chen.”

Job used it in appealing for pity and with it the psalmist described one who is generous to the poor. (Job 19:21)(Psalm 37:21; 112:5; compare with Proverbs 14:21-23; 19:17)

The latter examples show how “chanan” involves not only pity but also being gracious. It is in this sense that the word is applied to God, referring to His gracious and generous nature.

It is difficult to draw precise distinction between the various words used in the Old Testament for God’s mercy and grace. All three of the Hebrew words refer to the one gracious, forgiving, loving God who is forever faithful in reaching out to His people in their need.

Nowhere is their interrelatedness more evident than in the recurrent Old Testament liturgy which combines all three:

“God is merciful, (racham) and gracious (chana), slow to anger, and abounding in steadfast love (hesed) and faithfulness.” (Exodus 34:6)(Numbers 14:18)(Nehemiah 9:17)(Psalm 86:15; 103:8; 145:8)(Joel 2:13)(Jonah 4:2)

In the New Testament there are three word families that express the idea of mercy.

The first one is “splagchna,” which literally refers to the upper human organ, the heart, liver, and lungs. This usage appears in the grim depiction of Judas’ death in Acts 1:18.

Much like the Hebrew “rachamim,” “splagcha” developed the derived sense of strong emotional feeling, particularly of compassion and affection.

The word is often used of Jesus’ compassion:

For the multitudes (Matthew 9:36; 14:14; 15:32)

For the blind (Matthew 20:34)

For a leper (Mark 1:41)

For a possessed child ((Mark 9:20)

For a widow’s plight (Luke 7:13)

His parables use the term to describe:

The mercy of master on his indebted servant. (Matthew 18:27)

The compassion of a father for his prodigal son (Luke 15:20)

A Samaritan’s pity for a wounded Jew. (Luke 10:33)

With this word Paul urged the Corinthians to renew their affection for him and exhorted the Philippians to mutual love and concern, and played on the sympathy of Philemon. (2 Corinthians 6:12)(Philippians 2:1-2)(Philemon7, 12, 20)

With it, John reminded his readers that one who closes his heart to a brother’s need scarcely has God’s love. (1 John 3:17)

The second word used is “oikirmos” which also means “pity, mercy, compassion” and it is used together with “splagchna” in Colossians 3:12, Philippians 2:1, and James 5:11

It can be used negatively as in Hebrews 10:28 where it describes the merciless justice of the Law. Paul pointed to the positive side of God as “the Father of mercies,” (2 Corinthians 1:3) and he urged the Romans to sacrificial service based on God’s mercy. (Romans 12:1)

Christian mercy is rooted in God’s mercy, a principle already given by Jesus. (Luke 6:36)

The third word is “eleos.” It is the most common word in the New Testament for mercy. In secular Greek, the word was often viewed as a sign of weakness, a sentimental inclination to be overly lenient. The New Testament does not share in this assessment, having more in common with the Old Testament perspective on God’s mercy.

To be sure, the negative aspect appears. Drawing on Exodus 33:19, Paul showed how God in His sovereign purposes can withdraw His mercies. (Romans 9:15-16, 18, 23)

The total New Testament picture is much brighter. Jesus brought the good news of a merciful, forgiving God. He embodied that good news in Himself, and everywhere cries and expectation for mercy met him:

From two blind men (Matthew 9:27)

A woman with a possessed daughter (Matthew 15:22)

The father of an epileptic boy (Matthew 17:15)

Ten lepers (Luke 17:13)

It can be used negatively as in Hebrews 10:28 where it describes the merciless justice of the Law. Paul pointed to the positive side of God as “the Father of mercies,” (2 Corinthians 1:3) and he urged the Romans to sacrificial service based on God’s mercy. (Romans 12:1)

Christian mercy is rooted in God’s mercy, a principle already given by Jesus. (Luke 6:36)

The third word is “eleos.” It is the most common word in the New Testament for mercy. In secular Greek, the word was often viewed as a sign of weakness, a sentimental inclination to be overly lenient. The New Testament does not share in this assessment, having more in common with the Old Testament perspective on God’s mercy.

To be sure, the negative aspect appears. Drawing on Exodus 33:19, Paul showed how God in His sovereign purposes can withdraw His mercies. (Romans 9:15-16, 18, 23)

The total New Testament picture is much brighter. Jesus brought the good news of a merciful, forgiving God. He embodied that good news in Himself, and everywhere cries and expectation for mercy met him:

From two blind men (Matthew 9:27)

A woman with a possessed daughter (Matthew 15:22)

The father of an epileptic boy (Matthew 17:15)

Ten lepers (Luke 17:13)

In this life the mercy of God is always available for those who approach His throne. (Hebrews 4:16)

The Christian life is lived under this assurance of God’s mercy. This is why mercy is often an element in New Testament greeting and benedictions. (1 timothy 1:2; 2 Timothy 1:2; Galatians 6:16; 2 John 3; Jude 2)

Those who experience God’s mercy are themselves to be merciful. God not desire the external trappings of religiosity but deeds of mercy to others. (Matthew 9:13; 12:7; 23; 23)

One who shows no mercy to others cannot expect God’s mercy. (Matthew 18:33-34)(James 2:13)

Mercy is a mark of discipleship. (Matthew 5:7)

Disciples show deeds of mercy to a neighbor and perform them cheerfully. (Luke 10:36-37)(Romans 12:8)

God is mercy, and one who shares in God’s wisdom shares His mercy. (James 3:17)

As with the Old Testament, the New Testament treatment of God’s mercy cannot be separated from His love, His grace, and His faithfulness. They are all part of the same fabric.

The difference, of course, is that the New Testament writers had come to see the mercy of God in a much brighter light in the face of Jesus Christ.

He was, and still is, the ultimate manifestation of God’s mercy, the assurance of that mercy for believers, and the basis of their own mercy in the relationships with others.

Wow! Is that what is following you all the days of your life?

Observe:

WHAT HE PROMISES HIMSELF:

Goodness and mercy, all the streams of mercy flowing from the fountain, pardoning mercy, protecting mercy, sustaining mercy, supplying mercy.

THE MANNER OF THE CONVEYANCE:

It shall follow me, as the water out of the rock followed the camp of Israel through the wilderness; it shall follow into all places and all conditions, shall be always ready.

THE CONTINUANCE OF IT:

It shall follow me all my life long even to the last; for whom God loves He loves to the end.

THE CONSTANCY OF IT:

All the days of my life, as duly as the day comes it shall be new every morning (Lamentations 3:22-23) like the manna that was given to the Israelites daily.

THE CERTAINTY OF IT:

Surely it shall.

It is as sure as the promise of God of truth can make it; and we know whom we have believed.

Here is a prospect of the perfection of bliss in the future state.

So some take the latter clause: “Goodness and mercy having followed me all the days of my life on this earth, when it is ended I shall remove to a better world, to dwell in the house of the lord forever, in our Father’s house above, where there are many mansions.”

With what I have I am pleased much; with what I hope for I am pleased more.”

All this and heaven too! We serve a good Master.

The sheep with such a shepherd knows of a surety that this is a privileged position. No matter what comes, at least and always he can be perfectly sure that goodness and mercy will be in the picture. He reassures himself that he is ever under sound, sympathetic, intelligent ownership.

What more need he care about?

Goodness and mercy will the treatment he receives from his masters’ expert, loving hands. Not only is this a bold statement, but it is somewhat of a boast, an exclamation of implicit confidence in the One who controls his career and destiny.

How many Christians actually feel this way about Christ?

How many of us are truly concerned that no matter what occurs in our lives we are being followed by goodness and mercy?

Of course it is very simple to speak this way when things are going well. If my health is excellent; my income flourishing; my family is well; and my friends are fond of me it is not hard to say, “Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life.”

But what about when one’s body breaks down?

What do I say when I stand by helpless, as I have had to do, and watch a life partner die by degrees under appalling pain?

What is my reaction when my job folds up and there is no money to meet bills?

What happens if my children can’t make their grades in school or get caught running with the wrong gang?

What do I say when suddenly, without good grounds, friends prove false and turn against me?

These are the sort of times that test a person’s confidence in the care of Christ. These are the occasions during which the chips are down and life is more that a list of pious platitudes.

When my little world is falling apart and the dream castles of my ambitions and hopes crumble into ruins can I honestly declare: “Surely, yes, surely, goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life”?

Or is this sheer humbug and a maddening mockery?

In looking back over your own life, can you see His compassion and concern for you in His management of your affairs?

Were there events which at the time seemed like utter calamities?

Were there paths which He led you that appeared like blind alleys?

Were there days He took you through that seemed black as night itself?

But all in the end turned out for your benefit and your well being. With our limited understanding as finite human beings we can not always comprehend His management executed in infinite wisdom. With our natural tendencies to fear, worry and ask “why”, it is not always simple to assume that He really does know what He is doing with us.

Were there times you were tempted to bolt and to leave His care?

Did you have this strange notion that you could survive better on your own?

Despite our perverse behavior, aren’t you glad He did not give up on you?

Are you grateful He did follow us in goodness and mercy?

The only possible motivation was His own love, His care and concern for me as one of His sheep. Despite our doubts and misgivings about His management of our affairs, He has picked us up and borne you back again in great tenderness. The one who is truly in Christ’s care, no difficulty can arise, no dilemma emerge, no deeming disaster descend on the life without eventual good coming out of the chaos. This is to see the goodness and mercy of my Master in my life.
It is the great foundation of faith and confidence in Him.

I love Him because He first loved me. (I John 4:19)

His goodness and mercy and compassion to me are new every day.

My assurance is lodged in these aspects of His character.

My trust is in His love for me as His own.

My serenity has at its basis an implicit, unshakable reliance on His ability to do the right thing, the best thing in any given situation.

This is the supreme portrait of my Shepherd.

Continually there flows out to me His goodness and His mercy, which, even though I do not deserve them, come unremittingly from their source of supply, His own great heart of love. Herein is the essence of all that has gone before in this Psalm.

All the care, all the work, all the alert watchfulness, all the skill, all the concern, all the self-sacrifice are born of His love, the love of One who loves His sheep, loves His work, loves His role as a Shepherd.

“I am the Good Shepherd; the Good Shepherd gives his life for the sheep” (John 10:10)

“Hereby perceive we the love of God, because He laid down His life for us.” (I John 3:16)

With all this in view it is then proper to ask: “Is this outflow of goodness and mercy for me to stop and stagnate in my life?”

“Is there not a way in which it can pass on through me to benefit others?”

Yes, there is a way.

And this aspect is one which eludes many of us.

There is a positive, practical aspect in which my life in turn should be one whereby goodness and mercy follow in my footsteps for the well being of others. Just as God’s goodness and mercy flow to me all the days of my life, so goodness and mercy should follow me, should be left behind me, as a legacy to others, wherever I go.

Sheep can, under mismanagement, be the most destructive livestock. In short order they can ruin and ravage land almost beyond remedy. But in bold contrast they can be the most beneficial of all livestock is properly managed:

Their manure is the best balanced of any produced by domestic stock.

When scattered efficiently over the pastures it proves of enormous benefit to the soil.

The sheep’s habit of seeking the highest rise of ground on which to rest insures that the fertility from the rich low land is re-deposited on the less productive higher ground.

No other livestock consumes a s wide a variety of herbage.

Sheep eat all sorts of weeds and other undesirable plants which might otherwise invade a field.

In a few years a flock of well-managed sheep will clean up and restore a piece of ravaged land as no other creature can do.

In other words, goodness and mercy had followed the sheep. They left behind something worthwhile, productive, beautiful and beneficial to both themselves and others.

Where they had walked there followed fertility and weed-free land.

Where they had lived there remained beauty and abundance.

The question now comes to me pointedly; “Is this true of my life?”

Do I leave a blessing and benediction behind me?

Is this the way people feel about me, that I left behind a blessing?

Do I leave a trail of sadness or of gladness behind?

Is my memory, in other people’s minds, entwined with mercy and goodness, or would they rather forget me altogether?

Do I deposit a blessing behind me or am I a bane to others?

Is my life a pleasure to people or a pain?

Sir Alfred Tennyson wrote in one of his great classic poems, “The good men do lives after them.”


Sometimes it is profitable to ask ourselves such simple questions as:

Do I leave behind peace in lives, or turmoil?

Do I leave behind forgiveness, or bitterness?

Do I leave behind contentment, or conflict?

Do I leave behind flowers of joy, or frustration?

Do I leave behind love, or rancor?

Some people leave such a sorry mess behind them wherever the go that they prefer to cover their tracks.

For the true child of God, the one under the Shepherd’s care, there should never be any sense of shame or fear in going back to where they lived or been before.

Why?

Because there they have left a legacy of uplift, encouragement and inspiration to others.

The life of Jesus Christ can be summed up in the simple, verse, but deeply profound statement; “He went about, doing good!”

His good and kindly acts were always co-mingled with mercy. Where so often other human beings were rude and harsh and vindictive of one another, His compassion and tenderness was always apparent. Even the most flagrant sinners found forgiveness with Him, whereas at the hands of their fellow me they knew only condemnation, censure, and cruel criticism.

Is this my attitude to other people?

Do I sit up on my pedestal of self-pride and look with contempt upon my contemporaries, or do I get down and identify myself with them in their dilemma and there extend a small measure of the goodness and mercy given to me by my Master?

Do I see sinners with the compassion of Christ or with the critical eye of censure?

Am I willing to overlook faults and weaknesses in others and extend forgiveness as God has forgiven me in my failings?

The only real, practical measure of my appreciation for the goodness and mercy of God to me is the extent to which I am, in turn, prepared to show goodness and mercy to others.

If I am unable to forgive and extend friendship to fallen men and women, then it is quite certain I know little or nothing in a practical sense of Christ’s forgiveness and mercy to me.

It is this lack of love amongst Christians, which today makes the church an insipid, lukewarm institution. People come to find affection and are turned off by our tepidity.

But the man or woman who knows firsthand about the goodness and mercy of God in his life, will be warm and affectionate with goodness and mercy to others.

This is to be a benefit to them, but equally important, it is to be a blessing to God.

Yes, a blessing to God!

Most of us think only God can bring a blessing to us.

The Christian life is a two-way proposition.

Most of us forget that our Shepherd is looking for some satisfaction.

This is the benefit we can bring to Him.

He looks upon my life in tenderness for He loves me deeply.

He sees the long years during which His goodness and mercy followed me without slackening.

He longs to see some measure of that same goodness and mercy not only passed on to others by me but also passed back to Him in joy.

He longs for love, my love.

And I love Him, only because He first loved me.

Then He is satisfied.

All the Days of My Life

It is interesting to note that the psalmist said “all” the days of my life.
Not some days when things are going right. Not most of the time. Not only on Fridays.
Not almost all the time.

David, after being anointed by Samuel, spent a good part of his life running from Saul who wanted to kill him. He was chased, hunted like an animal, and wondered aloud in the other Psalms what was going on. But wherever he went, goodness and mercy were following him, pursuing him and overtaking him.

Did David feel like goodness and mercy were following him when his son Absalom took over the throne and David had to flee? It may not seem like it, but they were.

No matter what Bible dictionary you use, the word translated “all” means “all.”

I Shall Dwell In The House Of the Lord Forever

This Psalm opened with the proud, joyous statement; “The Lord is my Shepherd.” Here is a sheep so utterly satisfied with its lot in life, so fully contented with the care it receives, so much “at home” with the shepherd that here is not s shred of desire for change. Stated in simple, direct, rather rough ranch language it would be put like this, “Nothing will ever make me leave this outfit, it’s great!”

Conversely on the shepherd’s side there has developed a great affection and devotions to his flock. He would never think of parting with such sheep. Healthy, contented, productive sheep are his delight and profit. So strong, now, are the bonds between them that it is in very truth, forever.

The word “house” used here in the Psalm has a wider meaning than most people could attach to it. Normally we speak of the house of the Lord as the sanctuary or church or meeting place of God’s people. In one sense David may have had this in mind. And, of course, it is pleasant to think that one would always delight to be found in the Lord’s house.

But it must be kept in mind always, that the Psalmist, writing from the standpoint of a sheep, is reflecting on the recounting the full round of the year’s activities for the flock.

Actually what is referred to by “house” is the family of household or flock of the Good Shepherd.
The sheep is so deeply satisfied with the flock to which it belongs, with the ownership of this particular shepherd that it has no wish to change whatever. It is as if it had finally come home again and was now standing at the fence, bragging to its less fortunate neighbors on the other side. It boasts about the wonderful year it has had and its complete confidence in its owner.

Sometimes I feel we Christians should be much more like this. We should be proud to belong to Christ.

Why shouldn’t we feel free to boast to others of how good our Shepherd is?

How glad we should be to look back and recall all the amazing ways in which He has provided for our welfare.

We should delight to describe, in detail, the hard experiences through which He has brought us.

We should be eager and quick to tell of our confidence in Christ. We should be bold to state fearlessly that we are so glad we are His. By the contentment and serenity of our lives we should show what a distinct advantage it is to be a member of His “household,” of His flock.

What a comparison to the sheep who are not well cared for. Like wise with those apart from Christ. The world is a pretty wretched ranch and Satan is a heartless owner. He cares not a wit for men’s souls or welfare. Under his tyranny there are hundreds of hungry, discontented hearts who long to enter in the household of God, who ache for His care and concern.

Yet there is only one way into this fold. That way is through the owner, Christ Himself, the Good Shepherd.

He boldly declared, “ I am the door; by me if any man enter in, he shall be saved and shall go in and out, and find pasture.” (John 10:9)

Every day we are literally rubbing shoulders with men and women “on the other side of the fence.”

What is my impact on them?

Is my life so serene, so satisfying, so radiant because I walk and talk and live with God, that they become envious?

Do they see in me the benefits of being under Christ’s control?

So they see something of Him reflected in my conduct and character?

Does my life and conversation lead them to Him, and thus into life everlasting?

If so, then I may be sure some of them will also long to dwell in the house of the Lord forever. And there is no reason why this cannot happen if they come under His proper ownership.

There is one other beautiful and final sense in which the psalmist was speaking as a sheep. It is brought out in the Amplified Old Testament where the meaning of the last phrase is; ”I will dwell in the ‘presence’ of the Lord forever.”

It is probable the most significance sentiment that David had in his heart as he ended this hymn of praise to the Lord. Not only do we get the idea of an ever present Shepherd on the scene, but also the concept that the sheep wants to be in full view of his owner at all times.

This theme has run all through our study of this Psalm.

It is the alertness, the awareness, the diligence of a never tiring master which alone assures the sheep of excellent care. And from the sheep’s standpoint it is knowing that the shepherd is there; it is the constant awareness of this presence nearby that automatically eliminates most of the difficulties and dangers while at the same time providing a sense of security and serenity.

It is the sheep’s owner’s presence that guarantees there:

Will be abundant green pastures.

Will be still, clean waters.

New paths into fresh fields.

Safe summers on the high tablelands.

Freedom from fear.

Antidotes for flies and disease and parasites.

Quietness and contentment.

In our Christian lives and experience precisely the same idea and principles applies.

For when all is said and done on the subject of a successful Christian walk, it can be summed up in one sentence: “Live ever aware of God’s presence.”

There is the “ inner” consciousness, which can be very distinct and very real, of Christ’s presence in my life, made evident by His gracious Holy Spirit. It is He who speaks to us in distinct and definite ways about our behavior. For our part is a case of being sensitive and responsive to that inner voice.

There can be a habitual awareness of Christ within me, empowering me to live a noble and richly rewarding life in cooperation with Him. As I respond to Him and move in harmony with His wishes, I discover life becomes satisfying and worthwhile. It acquires great serenity and is made an exciting adventure of fulfillment as I progress in it. This is made possible as I allow His gracious Spirit to control, manage and direct my daily decisions.

I should deliberately ask for His direction even in minute details. Then there is the wider but equally thrilling awareness of God all around me. I live surrounded by His presence.

I am an open person, open individual, and living life open to His scrutiny.

He is conscious of every circumstance I encounter.

He attends me with care and concern because I belong to Him.

And this will continue through eternity.

What an assurance!

I shall dwell in the presence (in the care of) the Lord, YAHWEH, forever.


CONCLUSION

“THE LORD IS MY SHEPHERD”

That is not only the first statement of this song, it is its inclusive statement.

Everything that follows interprets the glory and sufficiency of the fact thus declared.

When this is said, all is said. Whatever may be added, is only to help us to understand the fullness of this great truth.

An adequate interpretation of this affirmation demands recognition of the fact that in all Eastern thought, and very definitely in Biblical literature, a king is a shepherd.

This is the supreme song of the Psalter concerning the Kingship of God in its application to the individual soul.

Other songs set forth the wonders of His Kingship of the nation, and over all peoples.

There are only two persons in this Psalm, YAHWEH and the singer, save where enemies are referred to.

The personal note is immediately struck, “YAHWEH is my Shepherd!” This eternal King, ruling over all the universe, is also the direct, personal, immediate King of every individual soul.
When this is recognized, the glory of the song is discovered. It is a revelation of the nature and method of the Divine government of the individual life.

Pondered in this way, the Psalm becomes a beautiful interpretation of that wonder phrase of Paul, “The good and acceptable and perfect will of God.”

Under His sway there is no lack. Our peaceful days He creates. If we wander, we are not abandoned. In the darkest hours He is still with us. He upholds us and delivers us in conflict.

He entertains us on the pilgrimage, and receives us into His house forever.

All the uttermost of value in this song has been interpreted to us through Him Who said of Himself, “I AM THE GOOD SHEPHERD.”