Drawing Out The Word

3. Rest in God's Leadership

Scripture:

Psalm 23

Hymn:

"Surely Goodness and Mercy"

Meditation: David, from a shepherd's perspective, penned this endearing Psalm of God's love and care for His family of believers. Psalm 23 ends with a promise that goodness and mercy will mark the life of God's flock. And, the condition for these blessings from verse one revolves around the question, “ Is the Lord your shepherd? ” Indeed we all should follow Christ as our Shepherd…  Because He Provides Our Every Need (Ps. 23:1-3) Why would our Lord want His children, His flock, to look good? "For His namesake!" A good parent wishes their child to look strong, healthy and satisfied in life, because the child reflects the love and care of the parent to passers-by. So it is with our Father in Heaven; He takes care of His own as a testimony of His love.  …He Protects Us from Present Danger (Ps. 23:4) "The valley of the shadow of death" is a description of everyday life for the believer in this sin-cursed world. Satan is "the prince and power of the air," "seeking whom he may devour." So, this Psalm is not a Psalm of death, but rather one of triumph in a dangerous life.  …He Prepares Life's Way Before Us (Ps. 23:5) A Shepherd would never lead his sheep anywhere he had not gone before to prepare the way. Our Lord has prepared a way for our life, and we must follow Him closely to be safe.  …He Promises Us Eternal Life in Glory (Ps. 23:6)

Gentle Shepherd, come and lead us For we need You to help us find our way. Gentle Shepherd, come and feed us For we need Your strength from day to day.