psalm 23 always watched over He is my shepherd
Always watched over
He is my Shepherd
I. Provided for by The Shepherd
A. No lack of anything
(NKJV) Psalm 23 1 A Psalm of David. The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want.
1. No lack of anything
2. Because He shepherds me
3. Paraphrase: How could I lack anything with Him as my Shepherd
B. Provides Peace and rest
(NKJV) Psalm 23 2 He makes me to lie down in green pastures; He leads me beside the still waters.
1. Causes me to rest – more than just provide
2. Takes me to this place of rest – filled – lie down – lush
3. Takes me to the place of stillness– place of comfort - waters of quietness – fresh cool slowly flowing water - refreshing
4. Paraphrase: He takes me to places where I am satisfied
C. Provides Inner Refreshment
(NKJV) Psalm 23 3 He restores my soul; He leads me in the paths of righteousness For His name’s sake.
1. Causes my nefesh to return
– breath – inner being - life - vitality
2. Inner renewal
3. Purpose beyond myself – right paths – straight and sure
4. For the sake of His reputation – glory – because of the kind of God He is
5. Paraphase: He leads along straight paths because that is the kind of God He is
II. Personally Protected by The Shepherd
(NKJV) Psalm 23 4 Yea, 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.
A. Personally present
1. Note switch to 2nd person
a) Not afraid of harm
b) With me
2. Even the darkest places
a) ‘midst of darkness’
b) Deepest darkness – ravine as dark as death
c) Deep trouble
B. Personally defends
a) Rod - Protection - reassures
C. Personally guides and helps
a) Staff - Guidance / help – reassures – crook
(1) Gives emotional security
III. Valued by the Shepherd
(NKJV) Psalm 23 5 You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies; You anoint my head with oil; My cup runs over.
A. Provides in the midst of the trouble
1. Not remove from problem people
2. Safe and full as enemies watch – can’t get me
3. A banquet in the middle of the predators – safe / full / blessing not dependent upon removal of trouble
B. Honors me
1. Special relationship – honored guest with God as the host
2. Exalt me – more than just safe – lifted up and honored
C. Ministers lavishly
1. Overflow – more than enough – generosity
IV. Pursued by the Shepherd
(NKJV) Psalm 23 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.