IN PSALM 23, DAVID LOOKS TO HIS HEAVENLY SHEPHERD
__________________________________________________
“The Lord is my Shepherd, I lack nothing.” – Psalm 23:1 –
David is a man after God’s own heart. His Shepherd is the Lord. He relies upon God, just as sheep rely upon their shepherd. In God’s presence, David lacks nothing. Once a mere shepherd boy and now king of Israel, he pens this most popular of psalms later in his life as he looks back on his life’s journey.
Jesus is our Good Shepherd – He is the Lord and Giver of Life. We bask in the love and comfort of His presence. Jesus is our life and our all. In His grace and goodness, He fulfills our deepest needs, both physical and spiritual. All we could ever truly want can be found in Him.
“He makes me lie down in green pastures, He leads me beside quiet waters, He refreshes my soul.” – Psalm 23:2-3
David begins his psalm with the cherished memory of times in the pasture with his beloved sheep. Fields rich in green grass with streams of cool water satisfy and refresh the flock under his watchful care. He is their shepherd who provides in abundance. He speaks of the peace and serenity he experiences in these times.
Jesus is our Peace – Our spiritual journey begins with the treasured time when we are drawn to Jesus. Under His attentive care, we are nourished with the Bread of Life and the Living Water that only He can provide. We are refreshed and revived in His presence. The Shepherd of our souls nurtures and cares for us, blessing us abundantly. In Him, we discover the peace and contentment that is beyond all understanding.
“He guides me along the right paths for His name’s sake.” – Psalm 23:3
David remembers shepherding his flock in their journey to new pasturelands. He guides them along paths through hills and valleys… alongside turbulent rivers and quiet streams… in sunshine and rainy weather. Always he is there to lead them to safety.
Jesus is our Guide – On this path of life, He forever journeys with us. We set out as new creations in Christ to do the work of His kingdom in His power and righteousness. Our Shepherd leads us as we travel through life’s ups and downs… along paths of sorrow and joy… in times of trouble and times of happiness. Always He leads us safely through.
“Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil, for You are with me; Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me.” – Psalm 23:4
David recalls being the protector of his flock through their treks in the Judean wilderness. The sheep trust their shepherd as he guides them carefully on dangerous paths… along steep, treacherous cliffs… through the shadowy gloom of dark canyons. He rescues his flock from lions, bears and wild animals who prey upon them, wielding his shepherd’s crook and club as weapons against their assaults. David remembers how his heavenly Shepherd had been his Rescuer in his battles against armies and nations.
Jesus is our Defender – He guides us through the wilderness of our most trying times. Our Shepherd is the Light in our darkest hours. We place our absolute trust in Him to see us through times of danger and fear… times of tears and heartbreak… times of grief and loss. He is our Warrior God who protects us, rescues us and comforts us.
“You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies. You anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows.” – Psalm 23:5
As David looks back on his life’s journey, he sees the faithful hand of his Shepherd always upon him. For David is God’s chosen one, anointed king and ruler of Israel. Amidst his trials with many enemies, David trusts in the presence and goodness of the Lord. God’s bountiful provision always sustains and strengthens him to persevere.
Jesus is our Ever-Faithful One – We are children of God, anointed with the blessing and power of His Spirit. Amidst our foes… worldly trials and spiritual enemies… we are victorious. Our faith overcomes our fears. We trust in the abundant favor of our Lord who delights to bless us beyond our imagining.
“Surely Your goodness and love will follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever.” – Psalm 23:6
David reflects on his lifetime… seeing the endless love God has showered upon him. He looks in faith to its continuance throughout his earthly journey and his heavenly destination. This one-time shepherd boy now king looks to his heavenly Shepherd and King with a longing to live in His holy presence forever.
Jesus is our eternal Shepherd – As we reflect on our life’s journey, we see the abundant love and goodness that Jesus has lavished upon us. He faithfully guides us, blesses us and protects us along our way through the wilderness of this world. Our path leads ever homeward to our forever home in heaven. There, Jesus will welcome us into His heavenly sheepfold where we will be in His love and care for all eternity.
