A Journey Through Psalm 23 Pt 15

1 The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want.
2 He makes me to lie down in green pastures;
He leads me beside the still waters.
3 He restores my soul; He leads me in the paths of righteousness for His name’s sake.
4 Though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil;
For You are with me; Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me.
5 You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies;
You anoint my head with oil; My cup runs over.
6 Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life;
And I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever.

Verse 5 You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies; You anoint my head with oil; My cup runs over.

 

‘The scene changes. I am no longer out of doors, but indoors; no longer a sheep in a flock, but a guest at a banquet.’ - John R. W. Stott

 God’s children are His guests because they are His friends.

As the shepherd cares for the needs of his sheep, so the host provides for the needs of his friends.

The constancy and abundant nature of God’s provisions means that God’s people have them in every situation and circumstance.

God’s care cannot be negated or destroyed by these fierce enemies.

It was customary in those days to receive a guest by anointing him with fragrant perfume and with a cup filled with a choice wine.

In this way, the host indicated that nothing was to be considered too good for his guest.

David declares that God’s care surpasses even this. His head had been anointed, and his cup was overflowing. 

God’s goodness is that disposition which causes him actively to seek the wellbeing of his creation. His mercy is that quality that inclines him to relieve misery.

David knew he could count on God’s goodness and mercy every step of the way.

I can boldly say, I am under the expert management, and compassionate, tender care of the Good Shepherd!

 

Full podcast notes are available at hz.church/podcast