Psalm 23 -- A Fresh Look

I enjoyed reading this chapter in a different translation so I wouldn’t just spout it out from memory.  That went along with what my commentary said – “this isn’t David as a young shepherd, lying on his back in a pasture … in [this psalm] David deals with some of the difficult things he experienced during his long walk with the Lord … it’s a message for mature Christians who have fought battles and carried burdens … David explains that if we follow the Lord and trust Him, He will meet our every need, no matter what the circumstances may be.”

My commentary also pointed out how verses 1-3 discuss the adequacy of our Shepherd to take care of us.  “God cares for us because He loves us and wants us to glorify Him (for His name’s sake).”

It also points out that in verse 4 the personal pronoun changes from he to you.  David is not speaking about the shepherd but speaking to the Shepherd.  In the dark valley, He is not before us but beside us, leading the way and calming our fears … through life, as we follow the Shepherd, we will have many and varied experiences, some of which will be very trying, but none of them can take the Lord by surprise.  We may trust Him and have peace.”

Verse 6 reflects “eternity in the Father’s house,” my commentary said.  “As an old man, David looked back over his long life and gave thanks that the Lord had blessed him with goodness and mercy.  In spite of his sins and failures, he had been followed by goodness and mercy.”

Thanks for a fresh look at the 23^rd Psalm, Father.  I’m so glad You are never caught by surprise at what I do.  Thank You for being the Shepherd who loves me in every way, despite my failures.

Your Brother In Christ,

Gary Ford