The Eternal Shepherd

Psalm 23:1–6 ESV

1 The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. 2 He makes me lie down in green pastures. He leads me beside still waters. 3 He restores my soul. He leads me in paths of righteousness for his name’s sake. 4 Even 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 overflows. 6 Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life, and I shall dwell in the house of the Lord forever.

Introduction

This Psalm is, perhaps, one of the best known portions of the Bible. It has many applications and one of the most powerful is to bring comfort at thethe time of bereavement.

1. Comfort in Knowing the Shepherd v1

Psalm 23:1 ESV

1 The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want.

David knew exactly what it was to be a shepherd.

John 10:11 ESV

11 I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep.

David put his own life at risk for the sake of his sheep. His shepherd gives him great confidence.

2. Comfort in Following the Shepherd v2-3

Psalm 23:2–3 ESV

2 He makes me lie down in green pastures. He leads me beside still waters. 3 He restores my soul. He leads me in paths of righteousness for his name’s sake.

a. Green Pastures v2

b. Still Waters v2

c. Restoration v3

d. Leading v3

3. Comfort in Trusting the Shepherd v4

Psalm 23:4 ESV

4 Even 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. The Darkest Times

b. Unafraid

c. The Shepherd's Presence

d. Strength and Comfort

4. Comfort in the Shepherd's Provision v5

Psalm 23:5 ESV

5 You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies; you anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows.

a. Sustenance

b. In Danger

Leupold Old Testament Commentaries: Psalms (Psalm 23: “The Lord Is My Shepherd”)

In like manner shepherds are still known to carry a little flask of oil to anoint the scratched face of the sheep that was obliged to seek its food among thorns and brambles.

c. Overflowing

5. Comfort with the Shepherd in the Future v6

Psalm 23:6 ESV

6 Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life, and I shall dwell in the house of the Lord forever.

a. In Life

b. In Eternity

Conclusion

May we all know the goodness, mercy and assurance tat only the true Shepherd can give.