Instruction
Scripture: Psalm 23
We do not know when David wrote this psalm or if there was a
particular event that moved him to do so. It does reflect David’s experience as
a shepherd and the recognition of how God had shepherded him. The content of this
psalm is well known. It compares the Lord to a shepherd who leads us, never
leaves us, and provides for us. This psalm is a word of comfort for us, and
God’s people often lean on these words in the darkest moments of our lives.
Teaching
There are three main themes in Psalm 23. They are God’s
leadership, his presence, and his provision. God leads us in this life. He has
given us guidance through his word, through our sisters and brothers in Christ,
and by the circumstance of our lives. He is present with us, and not only in
the good times. “Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death …
thou art with me ….” This is a great comfort when our life is dark and when we
face our mortality. And he provides. He provides in this life – food, drink,
blessings, and more. But he also provides and eternal home to dwell with him
forever.
We should also see in these words a relationship that is
deeply intimate. He leads me. He is with me. He prepares a table for me. This
is not just something God does generically. His concern is for you. And while
he often works on a large scale for all, he knows you individually and cares
for you, [insert your name here], and keeps this word for you.
Life
This beloved psalm is often relegated to funerals or the
time of death, but do you see how pertinent it is for your life today? These
are promises to take hold of as we face all aspects of this life. When we
wonder what to do in life it points us to the Lord to guide our ways. He does
that through his word, and he also welcomes our prayers. When we feel alone or
struggle in life, it reminds us that God is indeed with us … now! This isn’t a
pious dream of someday. It repeats what God often says, “I am with you always.”
And as for God’s provision, we see this gracious Shepherd and know his loving
presence. Will we not find him faithful for our needs in this life and the
next?
This psalm is a wonderful prayer for our lives and a great
confession of the hope we have in Christ.
Prayer
This prayer is written
in the theme of Instruction.
Lord you are my shepherd. You lead me, are present for me,
and provide for me. Fix that in my mind so that I learn to be content. You
provide me with all that I need for this life and even lead me in righteousness
for your name’s sake. Help me to know those ways all the better! You teach me
that you are with me in all circumstances and that you do not abandon me in the
worst times of my life. “Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of
death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me….” Keep that in my mind and
heart when things seem bad, and teach me to be confident in your presence with
me. You also provide all things for me and you have blessed me richly. All that
I have has been prepared by you and truly, “my cup overflows,” for you have
given me what I need to live now, but you have even given your Son to die for
me so that I might live with you forever. “Surely goodness and mercy shall
follow me all the days of my life, and I shall dwell in the house of the LORD
forever!” Amen.
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