Psalm 23

Psalm 23:.1 In describing the Lord as a shepherd, David wrote out his own experience because he had spent his early years caring for sheep. Sheep are completely dependent on the shepherd for provision, guidance and protection. The New Testament calls Jesus the good Shepherd. As the Lord is the good Shepherd, so we are his sheep, not frightened, passive animals, but obedient followers, wise enough to follow one who will lead us in the right places and in the right ways. This psalm does not focus on the animal-like qualities of sheep, but on the discipleship qualities of those who follow. When you recognize the good Shepherd, follow him.
Psalm 23:2,3. When we allow God our Shepherd to guide us, we have contentment. When we choose to sin, however, we go our own way and cannot God for the environment we create for ourselves. Our Shepherd knows the green pastures and quite waters that will restore us. We will reach these places only by following him obediently. Rebelling against the Shepherd’s leadership is actually rebelling against our own best interests. We must remember this the next time we are tempted to go our own way rather than the Shepherd’s way.
Psalm 23:4. Death cast a frightening shadow over us because we are entirely helpless in its presence. We can struggle with other enemies, pain, suffering, disease, injury- but strength and courage cannot overcome death. It has the final word. Only one person can walk us through death’s dark valley and bring us safely to the other side, the God of life, our shepherd. Because life is uncertain, we should follow this shepherd who offers us eternal comfort.
Psalm 23:5,6. In ancient Near Eastern culture, at a banquet it was customary to anoint a person with fragrant oil. Host were also expected to protect their guest at all cost. God offers the protection of a host even when enemies surround us. In the final scene of this psalm, we see that believers will dwell with the Lord. God , the perfect shepherd and host, promises to guide and protect us through life to bring us into his house forever.

Life must be lived forward, but it can only be understood backwards !!!

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