PEACE
Psalm 23
The Message v. 1: “God is my shepherd! I don’t need a thing.”
Psalm 23
The Message v. 1: “God is my shepherd! I don’t need a thing.”
The Architect of the universe takes care of each individual creation. Every detail of every life is in His sovereign control. A shepherd caring for his sheep are accurate metaphors (MET-a-fors) of our Father in Heaven caring for us. Sheep are gentle and harmless. Sheep follow. Sheep trust. They do not live in fear, want, or anxiety because they know that their shepherd is Jehovah. Sheep represent what God desires in His children: trust, reliance, obedience.
What peace.
How can we not live in joy and satisfaction knowing that every detail of our lives is under our Shepherd’s watchful eye? Believers, who live by faith, find abundance in green pastures—God’s goodness, provision, and peace.
Whatever circumstance in life, our Shepherd offers quiet contentment—green pastures—not of this world, but of God. Regardless of any situation, when we abide in Him, we will overcome.
What peace.
The indwelling Holy Spirit provides consolation and happiness represented by quiet waters, by which believers are led. We’re fed by the fountain of living water that restores souls. God’s Word guides His children in paths of righteousness, in which we abide.
These roads we cannot find unless our Shepherd leads us to and through them. When people’s walk is unsteady, their confusion is caused by distrust and unbelief in their Shepherd.
Hearken unto our Shepherd’s voice that leads us successfully through the shadow of death. Between us—the flock on earth—and that which has preceded us to Heaven is the valley of death. Every person must face death—which can bring terror. But we fear no evil, because our Shepherd rebukes, or scolds the enemy. Since our Shepherd guides us with His rod, and sustains us with His staff, we’re guaranteed victory.
What peace.
Jesus’ sheep feast at His table, where the wicked cannot touch them. Here, believers are anointed by the Holy Spirit and taste the cup of salvation which never empties. They’re reminded of their Shepherd’s goodness and mercy, His love, which follows them all the days of their lives. Finding everything they’ve ever wanted in His house, believers happily serve the Lord, forever.
What peace.
Take Home Nugget
People may scoff at whoever believes these words. But for hundreds of generations, Psalm 23 is the most often quoted Scripture at funerals. These words may mean different things to different people, but whoever hears these words of comfort is consoled.
Will you follow your Shepherd through life so that His goodness and mercy can reassure, soothe, and ease your burdens in times of trouble?
What peace.
J.D. Griffith
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