September 18
The Twenty-third Psalm is most often heard a funerals, but it is actually a road map for life. It begins, “The Lord is my Shepherd, I shall not want.” Here David, who was himself a shepherd, affirms that all the sheep need shall be provided by the Shepherd. The Shepherd supplies rest in green, fruitful pastures that are bordered by a fresh water supply.
David understands that the drudgery of day-to-day existence can wear on even the best-tended sheep, so a time of restoration is required in order that the sheep might continue to follow the right path. When the sheep keep to the designated path, it is to the ultimate honor of the Shepherd’s name.
Though the road traveled may at times be dark and the valley fraught with danger—even the danger of death—the sheep need not fear for the Shepherd is ever near to offer the protection and comfort of His rod and staff. His protection is so sure that the sheep may enjoy the table his Shepherd sets before him, although it may be in the presence of enemies! The one who follows knows he is anointed and his cup overflows.
David here further glorifies the Lord his Shepherd by saying that His goodness and mercy shall follow him all the days of his life. There is no time constraint on the goodness of the God who leads him. David knows that because of the faithfulness of his strong Shepherd, he will dwell in His house fore ever—for all of time, he will worship at His Temple and he will dwell eternally in His Heavenly Courts.
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