Confidence in God's Shepherding
Notes
Transcript
Sunday November 3, 2024
“Confidence in God’s Shepherding”
Key Verse: Psalm 23:6 (KJV 1900)
6 Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: And I will dwell in the house of the LORD for ever.
Psalm 23:1–6 (KJV 1900)
Our Shepherd Provides (Psalm 23:1-2)
1 The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want.
Shepherd - a person whose job is to tending, feeding, and guarding sheep in the pasture.
Application: A Shepherd provides protection and provisions for a flock of sheep. David makes this personal by saying “The Lord is my Shepherd.”
Shall not want means you will lacking nothing.
17x in this passage, David uses either “I, my, or me”. 12x in this passage, David refers to God as “The Lord, He, His, You or Your”
2 He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: He leadeth me beside the still waters.
Sheep are the people of Israel or anyone who loves the Lord.
The Shepherd guides and provides so the Shepherd makes them lie down in green pastures. This means a safe place to eat and rest.
Sheep are animals that have to be led. You cannot drive them like cattle or horses. He leads them with His voice. John 10:4 (NASB95): 4“When he puts forth all his own, he goes ahead of them, and the sheep follow him because they know his voice.
Still waters means that these are water of rest, that will restore the soul, and revive your mind. The Shepherd will lead you to this place of solitude.
Our Shepherd Protects (Psalm 23:3-4)
3 He restoreth my soul: He leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name’s sake.
Restores my soul means to bring back or to return.
Leads me means to guide or direct my movements. The Shepherd showing Leadership to the sheep.
Path of righteousness means the way. Not just any way but the right way.
Name’s sake means His reputation. He is the True God.
Observation: David is saying that he expects to experience blessings in the future that God has already shown in the past.
Application: Yahweh is the Hebrew name for Lord. When God was talking to Moses in Exodus Chapter 3, He instructed him to tell Pharoah and the sons of Israel that I AM sent you. God has a reputation of delivering and providing for his creation especially those that love him. God’s character won’t allow Him to fail you.
4 Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; Thy rod and thy staff they comfort me.
Valley is geographical depression relative to hills around it. Valleys are formed by water erosion. Often containing a body of water.
Shadow of death means darkness that is associated with danger and gloom.
Fear no evil means I will not be in a distress or concern about any situation that may not look good but I will not fear being there.
Rod - a wooden stick that was used for controlling individual animals in a herd or flock. Also the rod was used for correction for the animal (it reminds the sheep of the Shepherds touch). Staff - like a walking cane that was used to support walking around rough terrain or if you had weak legs. (Represent Defense and Guidance)
Comfort - finding relief from sorrow or distress; to encourage or console
Observation: Since God is a Protector, David is comforted in knowing the Shepherd will never leave nor forsaken him.
Luke 15:4–6 (KJV 1900)
4 What man of you, having an hundred sheep, if he lose one of them, doth not leave the ninety and nine in the wilderness, and go after that which is lost, until he find it?
5 And when he hath found it, he layeth it on his shoulders, rejoicing.
6 And when he cometh home, he calleth together his friends and neighbors, saying unto them, Rejoice with me; for I have found my sheep which was lost.
Our Shepherd Prospers (Psalm 23:5-6)
5 Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies: Thou anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over.
Prepare means to arrange in a particular order or idea.
Anoint means to have a ceremony where an object with a liquid or semi-liquid is smeared or rub.
Observation: God believes in honor, and He is preparing a banquet table before your enemies. (Not a fast food snack but a feast). He extends more honor and recognition by having a ceremony anointing you with oil in the presence of your enemies. David is so overwhelmed by what God is doing that he says his cup runs over.
Application: What great privilege to have God, the great Shepherd, to honor, recognize, and anoint you because you made a decision to choose Him as your Shepherd. Pitfalls and valleys will come in ever humans life but when you allow yourself to be lead by the Great Shepherd, then He will lead you down the path of righteousness.
6 Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: And I will dwell in the house of the LORD for ever.
Goodness means something that is worthy or beneficial
Mercy is loyal love or unfailing kindness or devotion
Observation: Goodness and mercy are ordered for your life by God. When evil or bad situations come your way, they protect you even when you may not see it. (Two body guards, Frank E. Ray) God is leading you as the Shepherd and Goodness and Mercy are watching your back.
Application: Just like David, we can have hope in our future because our God is faithful and always prospers. David made a decision that he was going to dwell in the house of the Lord for ever. Don’t leave the Shepherd. When you leave the flock, you become vulnerable to predators and trouble. He will come looking for you but the in between time of Him looking for you and you being found is a chance you should not want to take.
Sermon Builder
He Leads Me: Finding Peace in the Shepherd’s Care
Bible Passage: Psalm 23:1-6
Summary: Psalm 23 reveals the intimate relationship between the Lord and His followers, depicting God as a caring shepherd who provides for and protects His sheep.
Application: This Psalm encourages individuals facing anxiety, uncertainty, or fear, reminding them of God's ever-present guidance and provision in their lives, instilling peace and security in His promises.
Teaching: The sermon teaches that God, as our shepherd, desires to lead and guide us through life's challenges, providing comfort, sustenance, and hope. Each line of the Psalm reflects His protective and nurturing nature, showing us how to trust Him in every situation.
How this passage could point to Christ: In this Psalm, Christ is identified as the Good Shepherd (John 10:11), fulfilling the role of providing spiritual nourishment, protection, and leading His followers toward eternal life. The imagery used in Psalm 23 resonates with Christ’s mission to care for His flock with love and dedication.
Big Idea: In times of distress, remember that God is your shepherd, guiding you with love and care, offering peace and assurance amidst uncertainty.
Recommended Study: As you prepare, consider using your Logos library to explore the historical context of Psalm 23, especially regarding ancient shepherding practices. Look into Hebrew terms for 'shepherd' and 'pasture' to understand their connotations in the time it was written. Additionally, studying various translations might reveal nuances in the text that could enrich your sermon.
1. Provision in Green Pastures
Psalm 23:1-2
You could suggest that in verses 1 to 2, the Psalmist showcases the Lord’s provision as a shepherd, ensuring we lack nothing. By focusing on God’s role as a provider, you can encourage the congregation to trust in His sufficiency, emphasizing that our physical and spiritual needs are met through Him. These verses challenge us to rest in His abundant care, just as sheep find peace in green pastures and still waters. This trust alleviates anxiety and directs focus to Christ, the Good Shepherd who cares for our souls.
2. Pathways of Righteousness
Psalm 23:3
Perhaps you could highlight that verse 3 emphasizes God's restoring and guiding nature. God revitalizes our spirit and steers us along righteous paths. This assurance propels us to pursue holiness, knowing we are led by Christ, who paves the way for righteousness. Reflect on the transforming power of God’s guidance in our daily lives and how it directs us toward His purpose. Acknowledge that Christ, through His redemptive work, continually renews our strength and guides us onto paths that reflect His glory.
3. Protection in the Valleys
Psalm 23:4
Maybe explore how verse 4 addresses the fear and danger in life's darkest moments. Despite the shadows, the presence of the Shepherd assures safety and comfort. Encourage your audience to confront their fears with the courage derived from Christ’s presence. His rod and staff symbolize authority and care, defeating darkness with light. This focus can inspire confidence in facing trials, embodying Christ’s victory over fear and death, and revealing the power of His comforting presence and protection.
4. Peace at the Table
Psalm 23:5
Consider illustrating how verse 5 portrays God’s abundant blessings even amid opponents. The image of a lavish banquet signifies not only provision but also honor and intimacy with God. This can inspire the audience to recognize that divine favor transcends adversity. Connect this imagery to Jesus, who prepares a table for us through His sacrifice and triumphs over enemies, granting peace and joy. Encourage believers to embrace their identity as honored guests at Christ’s table, sharing in His victory.
5. Permanence in His Presence
Psalm 23:6
Verse 6 offers a hopeful perspective on life’s journey, promising God’s goodness and mercy at our rear guard. Suggest that this portrays life as a pilgrimage with God’s unwavering presence until eternity. Encourage trust in this divine accompaniment, reflecting on Christ’s commitment to His sheep, ensuring we dwell with Him forever. Emphasize the eternal assurance we have through Christ’s sacrificial love, inviting the audience to rejoice in the certainty of dwelling in the house of the Lord all days.
Illustration
In Psalm 23, David writes, 'The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want.' This profound statement reveals the confidence we can have in our Shepherd who provides for all our needs. When the storms of life hit, and doubt creeps in, remember that just as a shepherd leads his sheep to green pastures, the Lord guides us toward peace and fulfillment. Let's trust in His guidance, knowing He never leads us astray.
Application
If you are struggling with feeling inadequate in your faith journey and comparing yourself to others in the church, remind yourself that our Shepherd loves each of us uniquely and sees our potential. This week, start a journal where you can identify personal struggles and victories, noting how God has been involved in your growth. Commit to sharing these reflections with a mentor or small group, cultivating accountability and encouragement. By focusing on personal growth rather than comparison, you’ll build confidence in your unique walk with Christ.
He Leads Me: Finding Peace in the Shepherd’s Care
He Leads Me: Finding Peace in the Shepherd’s Care
Bible Passage: Psalm 23:1-6
Bible Passage: Psalm 23:1-6
Summary: Psalm 23 reveals the intimate relationship between the Lord and His followers, depicting God as a caring shepherd who provides for and protects His sheep.
Application: This Psalm encourages individuals facing anxiety, uncertainty, or fear, reminding them of God's ever-present guidance and provision in their lives, instilling peace and security in His promises.
Teaching: The sermon teaches that God, as our shepherd, desires to lead and guide us through life's challenges, providing comfort, sustenance, and hope. Each line of the Psalm reflects His protective and nurturing nature, showing us how to trust Him in every situation.
How this passage could point to Christ: In this Psalm, Christ is identified as the Good Shepherd (John 10:11), fulfilling the role of providing spiritual nourishment, protection, and leading His followers toward eternal life. The imagery used in Psalm 23 resonates with Christ’s mission to care for His flock with love and dedication.
Big Idea: In times of distress, remember that God is your shepherd, guiding you with love and care, offering peace and assurance amidst uncertainty.
Recommended Study: As you prepare, consider using your Logos library to explore the historical context of Psalm 23, especially regarding ancient shepherding practices. Look into Hebrew terms for 'shepherd' and 'pasture' to understand their connotations in the time it was written. Additionally, studying various translations might reveal nuances in the text that could enrich your sermon.
1. Provision in Green Pastures
1. Provision in Green Pastures
Psalm 23:1-2
You could suggest that in verses 1 to 2, the Psalmist showcases the Lord’s provision as a shepherd, ensuring we lack nothing. By focusing on God’s role as a provider, you can encourage the congregation to trust in His sufficiency, emphasizing that our physical and spiritual needs are met through Him. These verses challenge us to rest in His abundant care, just as sheep find peace in green pastures and still waters. This trust alleviates anxiety and directs focus to Christ, the Good Shepherd who cares for our souls.
2. Pathways of Righteousness
2. Pathways of Righteousness
Psalm 23:3
Perhaps you could highlight that verse 3 emphasizes God's restoring and guiding nature. God revitalizes our spirit and steers us along righteous paths. This assurance propels us to pursue holiness, knowing we are led by Christ, who paves the way for righteousness. Reflect on the transforming power of God’s guidance in our daily lives and how it directs us toward His purpose. Acknowledge that Christ, through His redemptive work, continually renews our strength and guides us onto paths that reflect His glory.
3. Protection in the Valleys
3. Protection in the Valleys
Psalm 23:4
Maybe explore how verse 4 addresses the fear and danger in life's darkest moments. Despite the shadows, the presence of the Shepherd assures safety and comfort. Encourage your audience to confront their fears with the courage derived from Christ’s presence. His rod and staff symbolize authority and care, defeating darkness with light. This focus can inspire confidence in facing trials, embodying Christ’s victory over fear and death, and revealing the power of His comforting presence and protection.
4. Peace at the Table
4. Peace at the Table
Psalm 23:5
Consider illustrating how verse 5 portrays God’s abundant blessings even amid opponents. The image of a lavish banquet signifies not only provision but also honor and intimacy with God. This can inspire the audience to recognize that divine favor transcends adversity. Connect this imagery to Jesus, who prepares a table for us through His sacrifice and triumphs over enemies, granting peace and joy. Encourage believers to embrace their identity as honored guests at Christ’s table, sharing in His victory.
5. Permanence in His Presence
5. Permanence in His Presence
Psalm 23:6
Verse 6 offers a hopeful perspective on life’s journey, promising God’s goodness and mercy at our rear guard. Suggest that this portrays life as a pilgrimage with God’s unwavering presence until eternity. Encourage trust in this divine accompaniment, reflecting on Christ’s commitment to His sheep, ensuring we dwell with Him forever. Emphasize the eternal assurance we have through Christ’s sacrificial love, inviting the audience to rejoice in the certainty of dwelling in the house of the Lord all days.
Illustration
In Psalm 23, David writes, 'The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want.' This profound statement reveals the confidence we can have in our Shepherd who provides for all our needs. When the storms of life hit, and doubt creeps in, remember that just as a shepherd leads his sheep to green pastures, the Lord guides us toward peace and fulfillment. Let's trust in His guidance, knowing He never leads us astray.
Application
If you are struggling with feeling inadequate in your faith journey and comparing yourself to others in the church, remind yourself that our Shepherd loves each of us uniquely and sees our potential. This week, start a journal where you can identify personal struggles and victories, noting how God has been involved in your growth. Commit to sharing these reflections with a mentor or small group, cultivating accountability and encouragement. By focusing on personal growth rather than comparison, you’ll build confidence in your unique walk with Christ.
