Thank God for such times! This sentence may be read, only goodness and mercy, for there shall be unmingled mercy in our history. A magnificent banquet is provided by a most liberal and benevolent host; who has not only the bounty to feed me, but power to protect me; and, though surrounded by enemies, I sit down to this table with confidence, knowing that I shall feast in perfect security. (Clarke). Every Christian is a priest, but he cannot execute the priestly office without unction, and hence we must go day by day to God the Holy Ghost, that we may have our heads anointed with oil. He is that interested in each of His sheep! God shines His light into our lives. To experience the care and guidance of God as a shepherd, we must identify ourselves as His sheep. Here the second allegory begins. This is a fact as indisputable as it is encouraging, and therefore a heavenly verily, or surely is set as a seal upon it. GenesisExodusLeviticusNumbersDeuteronomyJoshuaJudgesRuth1 Samuel2 Samuel1 Kings2 Kings1 Chronicles2 ChroniclesEzraNehemiahEstherJobPsalmsProverbsEcclesiastesSong of SongsIsaiahJeremiahLamentationsEzekielDanielHoseaJoelAmosObadiahJonahMicahNahumHabakkukZephaniahHaggaiZechariahMalachiMatthewMarkLukeJohnActsRomans1 Corinthians2 CorinthiansGalatiansEphesiansPhilippiansColossians1 Thessalonians2 Thessalonians1 Timothy2 TimothyTitusPhilemonHebrewsJames1 Peter2 Peter1 John2 John3 JohnJudeRevelation, Select a Beginning Point The Shepherd's rod: The rod which the Shepherd carried was for protecting the sheep from predators. David envisioned God as a benevolent host who prepared a grand banquet. We might say that the shepherds presence did not eliminate the presence of evil, but certainly the fear of evil. Right paths lead to life rather than death (see Matthew 7:13-14). And, then, it is not the valley of death, but the valley of the shadow of death, for death in its substance has been removed, and only the shadow of it remains Nobody is afraid of a shadow, for a shadow cannot stop a mans pathway even for a moment. With family of say, a mother, a father, 3 or four children, and only one in the family working and bringing in 3 dollars (a day), it would takes ages before one can afford to buy anything extra, even clothes or even a blanket. In the end, in whatever it is that places you in fear or unease, you have to come back to this very thought we are speaking of here - 'The Lord is my shepherd' - He is in control of all things. Instead of speaking about his Shepherd, David speaks to Him. John 10:11 I am the good shepherd. Pentateuch People need comfort and encouragement. Many people succumb to their hopelessness and fear. Johannine Writings The Whole Bible Articles Messages Books Podcasts Filter Resources By Ask Pastor John. They are in need of a good shepherd who will provide, protect, and guide his sheep. Oh! While I am here I will be a child at home with my God; the whole world shall be his house to me; and when I ascend into the upper chamber I shall not change my company, nor even change the house; I shall only go to dwell in the upper story of the house of the Lord for ever. (Spurgeon), (c) 2020 The Enduring Word Bible Commentary by David Guzik ewm@enduringword.com. John Piper Sep 1, 1980. With this verse, he begins to use the second person (you and your). It is a treasure chest filled with spiritual truths that encourage many. [3], The LORD - The first thing to note is the source of David's comfort. They believed that something of the persons identity was tied up in the namethat the name expressed something of the persons essential character. Pastor John MacArthur. Pauline Epistles A poor man may say this as well as those in higher circumstances, What, all this, and Jesus Christ too?[6]. [7], 5001 North Oak Trafficway The Shepherd, the Host, and the Highway Patrol Summer Psalms. (13) I can do all things through Him who strengthens me. It has comforted the noble host of the poor. We in turn should allow that light to shine forth towards others so that people may see our lives and praise God. His passion is to serve the global Church and bring people of diverse backgrounds together to learn & grow. What a wonderful picture we have of Christ in these three psalms! Published by Thomas Nelson, 2005. If you refuse cookies we will remove all set cookies in our domain. They are well placed, well laid: He maketh me to lie down in green pastures. These cookies are strictly necessary to provide you with services available through our website and to use some of its features. [6] As a silly example, a few weeks back I got an email from a past work colleague that I hadn't heard from for some time. Psalms 23. 5 You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies. We seek more of God and depend on Him further when we encounter problems. Ethan Collins November 17, 2020, Psalm 23 is undoubtedly one of the most well-known passages in Scripture. But mentally and spiritually we can get really tired trying to work out all our problems and we don't rest. He who turns the ebb into the flood can soon restore our soul. We are smart enough to do this in the physical. Verse 1. A servant abideth not in the house for ever, but the son abideth ever. While I am here I will be a child at home with my God; the whole world shall be his house to me; and when I ascend into the upper chamber, I shall not change my company, nor even change the house; I shall only go to dwell in the upper story of the house of the Lord forever. In extreme cases where a lamb continually wandered off and wouldn't stick with the pack (causing the Shepherd to repeatedly have to go and bring the lamb back) the Shepherd would sometimes break the lamb's leg! Fortunately, I had insurance that would allow my family to weather the storm financially. Notably, David recognized that under the shepherds leading, he may walk through the valley of the shadow of death. He is no longer speaking about God, but is instead speaking to God. The Hebrew word rewayah suggests abundanceeven superabundance. And I will dwell in the house of the LORD My - This is probably the best thing about this psalm it is so personal! [10]. This is seen in the following table: [2]. His past death for His people This table represents all the blessings that are ours in Christ Jesus. In the Old Testament, prophets were anointed (1 Kings 19:16). He was faithful in caring for his flock and never complained about his responsibilities. I will believe that thou reignest still. Psalm 23 - Sermon On the Lord is My Shepherd - Study and Obey The concept dates back to the Book of Genesis when Jacob referred to the LORD as the Shepherd and the Rock of Israel (Genesis 49:24). Here David pictures God as a gracious host who provides all that he needs even in times of apparent difficulty. He is. I had good medical care. Grace Community Church 13248 Roscoe Blvd. 'My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me. 14a (Downers Grove, Illinois: Inter-Varsity Press, 1973), Limburg, James, Westminster Bible Companion: Psalms (Louisville: Westminster John Knox Press, 2000, Mays, James Luther, Interpretation: Psalms (Louisville: John Knox, 1994), McCann, J. Clinton, Jr., The New Interpreters Bible: The Book of Psalms, Vol. The overflowing cup symbolizes the Lords generosity. It is a Psalm of life, rest and peace. So here is a man who has had to depend upon His Shepherd and is finding Him faithful even in trying times. You can find a family who have brought up children to being young adults and have never owned a bed. When flies or parasites annoy them, its hard for them to be at rest. It is for 'His name's sake' that He does this. Nothing is outside of His control. For a shepherd, the healing purpose would be significant. That's the animal God choose which best represents you! ), The Anchor Yale Bible Dictionary, 6 vol. He makes me lie down in green pastures; He leads me beside the still waters., God as a shepherd knows where to lead His flock to rest. No, we are not talking here about genuine needs, not greed'! The rest of the Psalm exhibits the shepherding care of God that is essential to life. He restoreth my soul: He leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for His name's sake. Note that blocking some types of cookies may impact your experience on our websites and the services we are able to offer. He was refreshed by a head anointed with oil; his cup was over-filled. We understand that a shadow is not tangible but is cast by something that is. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. If you do not want that we track your visit to our site you can disable tracking in your browser here: We also use different external services like Google Webfonts, Google Maps, and external Video providers. To call God a shepherd is to acknowledge His sovereignty over their lives and submit to His will. Founded in 1969, Grace to You is the nonprofit organization responsible for developing, producing, and distributing Johns books, audio resources, and the Grace to You radio and television programs. It included the most highlighted passage in the Bible which turned out to be this passage: Philippians 4:6-7 Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. But, what makes it so compelling? [4] I read in a John Hunter book that as well as being able to say 'The Lord is my shepherd' we should be able to say 'The shepherd is my Lord.' Please visit: https://www.bestbiblecommentaries.comPlease visit: www.bestbiblecommentaries.comBrowse John MacArthur's bible commentaries on Amazon:https://am. Let us not, therefore, be afraid. Shepherds use the rod and staff to guide the sheep and protect them from potential predators. The idea that the LORD is a shepherd to His people is also prevalent throughout the Bible. The sheep knew that the shepherd was the one who protected them and cared for them. b. Click to enable/disable _ga - Google Analytics Cookie. God's eternal desire is that He would have many sons and daughters who display His glory and light within them. The little child out at sea in the storm is not frightened like all the other passengers on board the vessel, it sleeps in its mothers bosom; it is enough for it that its mother is with it; and it should be enough for the believer to know that Christ is with him Thy rod and thy staff, by which you govern and rule your flock, the ensigns of your sovereignty and of your gracious carethey comfort me. ii. Please see our Privacy Policy for cookie usage details. Learn More | Livestream | Bulletin Servicios en espaol. The mercy here comes from the Hebrew word Hesed which depicts Gods covenant faithfulness. 'Was it just a silly dream or something more spiritual?' He will sustain and provide for all of His peoples needs. Our God leads His people into the green pastures and still waters. e. Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me: The rod and the staff were instruments used by a shepherd. He rammed it home so much that come lunch time we were saying 'I WILL eat my lunch', 'I will EAT my lunch.' Location. In the Bible, anointing was used to designate a person for a significant role. Since the text and audio content provided by BLB represent a It has not made the dying Christian slave freer than his masterNor is its work done. He is the shepherd that provides and His people will lack no good thing. Minor Prophets It wasn't a nice dream at all '. The good man has his enemies. We are well escorted, with a Shepherd in front and these twin angels behind! (Meyer), iii. (General Editor), New International Dictionary of Old Testament Theology & Exegesis, 5 vol., (Grand Rapids: Zondervan, 1997), All Rights Reserved | 1997-2023 Richard Niell Donovan. I need to know you are well.' Surely goodness (Hebrew: tob) and loving kindness (Hebrew: hesed) shall follow me all the days of my life (v. 6a). All of John's 3,000 sermons, spanning more than four decades of ministry, are available for free on the Grace to You website. Whatever be the believers position, he is even now under the pastoral care of Jehovah. Likewise, we also need God to guide us to the right places and opportunities. Alex is a family man and entrepreneur based in Los Angeles. They also keep a vigilant and watchful eye out for poisonous plants and wild animals. My cup runs over. It helped him even in the valley of the shadow of death to know that God guided him, even through correction. Everything will be ok. Almost everyone, whether religious or not, has heard Psalm 23 because it is quoted so frequently. Forever. David wrote this while remembering his fearful experiences. To be invited to Gods table is the ultimate honor. Psalm 23 is an explicit metaphor that displays the relationship between God and His people. It has sung courage to the army of the disappointed. So out of the blue she emailed a few weeks back asking: 'All ok with you? To be invited to a persons table was an honor. Just like the sheep, its difficult for us to be at rest when life throws a lot of problems. He was aware of the potential dangers that may befall him. In fact, he thought quite highly of it, as is evident by this especially generous compliment: Of this delightful song it may be affirmed that its piety and its poetry are equal, its sweetness and its spirituality are unsurpassed. Spurgeon once referred to Psalm 23 as the Pearl of the Psalms in his monthly magazine, The Sword and the Trowel. [7] Do you have this same confidence that David had? You anoint my head with oil; Psalm 23:3 He guides me in paths of righteousness for his name's sake. Guidance -- for He leads me in the paths of righteousness. Nor is he saying that 'the LORD is my Shepherd, I get everything I want'. Commentaries; Sermons. Johannine Writings But the shepherds here use dogs and fences to drive and control the sheep. THE LORD AS SHEPHERD 1 Yahweh is my shepherd: I shall lack nothing. My cup runs over. May God grant us grace to dwell in the serene atmosphere of this most blessed Psalm! Our God does not withhold anything good from His flock. But, it does entitle David to experience Gods provision and providence in their midst. So life here for our sheep is one of continual green pastures. If God is our shepherd then we must obey Him wholeheartedly. Changes will take effect once you reload the page. 'Do I need to be extra careful?' Is it a terrible thing that even though God is sovereign and controls the entire universe, we don't want to let go of the reigns! It is for His name's sake and His glory that this is done! He had known feast. A shepherd would prepare a table for his sheep by scouting ahead to find good pastureland free from predators and poisonous plants. He had the honour of being King over all Israel, yet seen the lows of having his own son, Absalom, rise up against him and take the throne. He will wipe every tear from their eyes. Why the double standard of confusing messages? This is the joy of the Christian! God refuses to let the godly go hungry. But it is still the path that leads to righteousness. 2 He makes me lie down in green pastures. (Jer 23:1-4, Ezek 34:1-10) Work to be a faithful shepherd realising that it is God's own sheep that He has placed in your care. It has charmed more griefs to rest than all the philosophy of the world. 3 He restores my soul. and flame will not scorch you. Text: Psalm 23 Ministry: Anchored. This is the condition of Gods servant always conflict, but always a spread table. (Maclaren), ii. Just as when great princes go abroad they must not go unattended, so it is with the believer. (Spurgeon). It is a psalm which has been sung by good Christians, and will be while the world stands, with a great deal of pleasure and satisfaction. It could also refer to a piece of furniture like the tables that we know today. Wisdom Literature Though not often recited in its entirety, few are unfamiliar with the famous valley of the shadow of death.. God longs to bless and prosper His people. The word my cup runs over indicates that David not only had the necessities but also enjoyed abundance. Psalm 23 is written by David who grew up as a shepherd. Sun Valley, CA 91352 Please see Blue Letter Bible's Privacy Policy for cookie usage details. Minor Prophets But how does God do this? He guides me in the paths of righteousness for his name's sake. Many people were praying for me. In Psalm 23, God has answered this prayer God has led him in paths of righteousness. range of evangelical traditions, all of the ideas and principles conveyed There are no halfway measures when it comes to the Lords provision for our lives. It may portray the straying sheep brought back. It adorns walls in faithful churches and fills frames in Christian homes. The Hebrew word for staff (mishaynaw) seems to speak of a support in the sense of a walking stick. David could confidently write the second phrase because he experienced the provision and providence of God in his life. The book of Psalms is so unique because it focuses on the character of God. David had extreme confidence in who God IS right now! May we live in the daily enjoyment of this blessing, receiving a fresh anointing for every days duties. Rev 21:3-4, 'Forever' is a long time, but this infinitely creative God will never fail to amaze us. This unspeakably delightful verse has been sung on many a dying bed, and has helped to make the dark valley bright times out of mind. When you walk through the fire, you will not be burned, He would tend, protect and care for his sheep. And I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever. This also shows us our need of giving Him His rightful place as Lord over our life. The New Testament He leads me. We fully respect if you want to refuse cookies but to avoid asking you again and again kindly allow us to store a cookie for that. Pentateuch John MacArthur brings you a complete Bible commentary in one volume. Why is Psalm 23 one of the most well-known Psalms and the favorite biblical passage of many? The sheep would experience excruciating pain that they would bash their heads against trees and rocks for relief. But he would then carry that lamb while its leg mended and apparently, once healed, that lamb would never wander off from the shepherd again. Psalm 23:5 You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies. Pastor John MacArthur | The MacArthur Commentaries Grace to You. Historical Books The Gospels Arno C Gaebelin said (with some small modifications): A good way to read this Psalm is by asking the question, 'What shall I not want?' I have a lady at my work who, after saying something that she felt may tempt fate, said 'touch wood'. Wisdom Literature Basically fear tactics. Please read and believe! David experienced the goodness and mercy of God from His tender care. Taking the Lord's Supper in an Unworthy Manner. Davids song is portrayed in non-religious circles too, making appearances in many secular movies and other entertainment mediums. Report an Issue Sermon Correction/Question . i. Scripture: Psalm 23. Blue Letter Bible offers several daily devotional readings in order to help you refocus on Christ and the Gospel of His peace and righteousness. The ASV, which is also in the public domain due to expired copyrights, was a very good translation, but included many archaic words (hast, shineth, etc. The word PSALM literally means praise and it features works of various characters the majority of which were written by David. He is the source of life and a great provider. That is what God desires to work into your life. Psalm 23 distinctively stands out compared to other chapters in the Book of Psalms and receives a larger magnitude of respect. Anointing with oil was used for various purposes (healing, burial, expressing grief or joy). A city on a hill cannot be hidden. Yea, though I walk, as if the believer did not quicken his pace when he came to die, but still calmly walked with God. He has also served as pastor-teacher of Grace Community Church in Sun Valley, California since 1969. So for now, let us follow our Lord where He would lead. In the ancient Near East, the shepherd was a royal metaphor. The shepherd recognizes when the sheep require green pastures and when they require still waters. It is to live with Him. (Kidner), ii. Title The entire collection of Psalms is entitled "Praises" in the Hebrew text. 6Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of theLordforever. Sounds like a nice place to be for a defenceless sheep now doesn't it? (Philip Keller). It is a Psalm of but 6 verses but countless sermons and entire books have been written on it. In Psalm 22 Christ is the Saviour; in Psalm 23 He is the Satisfier; in Psalm 24 He is the Sovereign. This is a great shame because it is not a psalm of death! The sense of this verse then is that, because God is loving and kind, his people can expect God to provide blessings throughout life. ii. David knew the uniqueness and intimacy of this metaphor. Email / username or password was incorrect! It has poured balm and consolation into the heart of the sick, of captives in dungeons, of widows in their pinching grief's, of orphans in their loneliness. 1TheLordis my shepherd; I shall not want. Like the Greek word agape (love) in the New Testament, hesed (lovingkindness) involves actionkindness or love expressed through kind or loving actions rather than just feelings. He would not be like his Lord if he had not. Note the pronoun change in this verse. So I started checking myself - heart was still pumping, ears were attached, nose still worked, yes, everything seemed to be in order. How would you describe sheep? i. That is some revelation! I remember a woman who grieved every year on anniversary of the death of her infant child. Do you have the confidence to say that the almighty God IS your Shepherd right now? Prophets They probably are anxious about different things. GenesisExodusLeviticusNumbersDeuteronomyJoshuaJudgesRuth1 Samuel2 Samuel1 Kings2 Kings1 Chronicles2 ChroniclesEzraNehemiahEstherJobPsalmsProverbsEcclesiastesSong of SongsIsaiahJeremiahLamentationsEzekielDanielHoseaJoelAmosObadiahJonahMicahNahumHabakkukZephaniahHaggaiZechariahMalachiMatthewMarkLukeJohnActsRomans1 Corinthians2 CorinthiansGalatiansEphesiansPhilippiansColossians1 Thessalonians2 Thessalonians1 Timothy2 TimothyTitusPhilemonHebrewsJames1 Peter2 Peter1 John2 John3 JohnJudeRevelation, Select an Ending Point Poetical Books The New Testament speaks of Jesus as anointed (Luke 4:18; John 20:31; Acts 5:42; Hebrews 1:9, etc.). And obviously, he would then leave the lamb to die in the wilderness, eaten by its predators! GenesisExodusLeviticusNumbersDeuteronomyJoshuaJudgesRuth1 Samuel2 Samuel1 Kings2 Kings1 Chronicles2 ChroniclesEzraNehemiahEstherJobPsalmsProverbsEcclesiastesSong of SongsIsaiahJeremiahLamentationsEzekielDanielHoseaJoelAmosObadiahJonahMicahNahumHabakkukZephaniahHaggaiZechariahMalachiMatthewMarkLukeJohnActsRomans1 Corinthians2 CorinthiansGalatiansEphesiansPhilippiansColossians1 Thessalonians2 Thessalonians1 Timothy2 TimothyTitusPhilemonHebrewsJames1 Peter2 Peter1 John2 John3 JohnJudeRevelation, Use semicolons to separate groups: 'Gen;Jdg;Psa-Mal' or 'Rom 3-12;Mat 1:15;Mat 5:12-22', There are options set in 'Advanced Options', The Whole Bible (Grand Rapids: William B. Eerdmans Publishing Company, 1979-1988), Brown, Francis; Driver, S.R. It is a valley of the shadow of death, facing what seemed to David as the ultimate defeat and evil. And I will dwell in the house of the LORDforever: The psalm ends with the calmest assurance that he would enjoy the presence of the LORD forever both in his days on this earth and beyond. Psalm 23 brings encouragement and a great reminder that God is our shepherd and He will never abandon us. The anointed writer of Psalm 23 was King David. type 23-6 in the address bar in place of 1-1 so that . These cookies collect information that is used either in aggregate form to help us understand how our website is being used or how effective our marketing campaigns are, or to help us customize our website and application for you in order to enhance your experience. 6 Surely goodness and loving kindness shall follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in Yahwehs house forever. It doesn't mean that anything outwardly has to change. PSALM 23:1-4. David wrote Psalm 23 based on his experiences with God. Everything in eternity -- for I shall dwell in the house of the LORD forever. The Old Testament Peace -- for He leads me beside the still waters. Pray to him, then, for the blessingRestore thou me, thou Shepherd of my soul!, Some Christians overlook the blessing of sanctification, and yet to a thoroughly renewed heart this is one of the sweetest gifts of the covenant. Luke-Acts The word through is important. a. b. Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death: This line from the psalm and the psalm as a whole has proven itself precious to many a dying saint through the ages. It is well to know, as certainly as David did, that we belong to the Lord. 'Is something bad going to happen to me?' b. Maclaren writes: The rod and the staff seem to be two names for one instrument, which was used both to beat off predatory animals and to direct the sheep.. What He is leading, guiding and teaching us is firstly about the inward change to the circumstance even if outwardly things remain the same. The Gospels The word restore implies the notion of a rescued one. By proceeding, you consent to our cookie usage. Those that have this happiness must carry their cup upright, and see that it overflows into their poor brethrens emptier vessels. (Trapp). General Epistles Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil; For You are with me; Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me.. What confidence for this life this should give us as we believe it in faith! In light of all these truths, we must respond promptly. They are still waters, for the Holy Ghost loves peace, and sounds no trumpet of ostentation in his operations. The first time through the dark valley is always scary. God is his shepherd and his Goda God all-sufficient to all intents and purposes. Well, having said that I should say that you will be free from fear to the degree that you know He is with you - rain, hail and shine. God is holy, and takes his holy name seriously: Since God is holy, we as Gods people need to insure that we do not tarnish his name by our wrongful words or actions.