David’s Psalm

 

One of the most informative and inspirational scriptures ever written by David is the Twenty-third Psalm. Filled with practical wisdom and spiritual insight into the character of God, the author expresses his great affection and adoration for the man he calls his Shepherd.

Remembering the many times God protected him from Saul’s advances, the psalmist opens with a personal appeal. "The Lord is my Shepherd" Psalms 23:1. The word "Lord" represents the authoritative power of God. This God spoke, and His voice echoed through the halls of chaos heralding into existence this great world.

"I shall not want" comforts the reader, assuring him that with God as his shepherd, he will want for nothing. For the same God that created us also loves us and offered for us His greatest gift. Like a shepherd who would die for his sheep, God sacrificed His only begotten Son, giving us the opportunity to escape the ravages of sin and eternal damnation.

God desires nothing but the absolute best for us. He takes pleasure in being our provision. To the shepherd, no trouble is too great or detail to small. He stands guard daily, making sure that we grow to be "beautifully proportioned". He desires that we be well balanced, and that we enjoy health in our lives and relationships.

Lying down in green pastures denotes a relief from fear. Just as a sheep’s first instinct is to run from danger, the Lord warns us to flee temptation. But fear is not encouraged. In fact, the Lord instructs us to "Fear Not". Why? Because the very presence of the shepherd will eliminate fear. For God has not given s the spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind 2 Timothy 1:7 NKJV.

Still waters represent the peace of God. Sheep, like people, strive for social status and dominance. Without Jesus in the midst, we operate in confusion. The presence of the shepherd eliminates this friction and brings about peace.

Natural hunger is why the world is suffering. Hungry sheep are always on the move, restless and searching for something to fill the void. Whether through drugs, sex or ungodly living, they constantly desire to be filled and restored. But who can restore? David’s reply would be "his shepherd".

The psalmist can attest to the fact that no matter what you have done or how badly you have messed up, the shepherd will renew you, set you on your feet again, lead you through the path of death and cause you to fear no evil. He will anoint you with the oil of gladness, calm your moments of panic and get you back on track.

Just as David’s shepherd cared for him, if we cast our cares on Him, then David’s psalm will become our song. May the God who brought Jesus again from the dead, rest, rule and abide with you both now and forever.

By: Travestine Wright