TWENTY-THIRD PSALM (2)

The Shepherd’s Care: Finding Peace in the Valley

Bible Passage: Psalm 23

At its heart Psalm 23 is an expression of confidence in the protective care of Yahweh, upon whom the psalmist expresses absolute dependence.

Gerald H. Wilson

Summary: Psalm 23 is a profound declaration of God's faithfulness and provision. It paints a vivid picture of the Lord as a shepherd who guides, provides, and protects his people, emphasizing peace and comfort even in the darkest times.

Application: This passage helps Christians understand that no matter the struggles they face—be it anxiety, loss, or uncertainty—they are never alone. By recognizing the Lord as their shepherd, believers can find peace and assurance in His constant presence and guidance.

Teaching: The sermon teaches that God cares for us deeply and is always present in our lives, empowering us to trust Him through all circumstances. It reassures the audience that they can rely on God's guidance and provision.

How this passage could point to Christ: This passage points to Christ as the Good Shepherd (John 10:11), who not only leads and cares for His flock but also laid down His life for them. The shepherd imagery throughout the Bible culminates in Jesus, highlighting His sacrificial love and commitment to our well-being.

Big Idea: In a world filled with anxiety and fear, trusting in the Good Shepherd brings comfort and assurance, empowering believers to face life's challenges with peace.

Recommended Study: As you prepare this sermon, consider digging into the various names of God as depicted in Psalm 23 using Logos. Pay particular attention to the nuances of the Hebrew words for ‘shepherd’ and ‘comfort,’ and how they unfold throughout the psalm. Examine the historical context of sheep herding in the ancient Near East to enrich your understanding of the shepherd motif.

1. Presence in the Pastures

Psalm 23:1-2

You could illustrate how the Psalm opens with a powerful assurance of God's provision and care, likening Him to a shepherd who leads his sheep to rest and nourishment. Emphasize that believers can find rest and peace in God's presence, trusting that He knows what they need, much like a shepherd knows the needs of his flock. Highlighting Jesus as the Good Shepherd reinforces this image of comfort, inviting the congregation to reflect on the peaceful pastures God leads them to, even amid life's chaos.

2. Protection in the Valleys

Psalm 23:3-4

Perhaps convey the transformative journey with God as the Shepherd who not only guides believers on the right paths but also walks with them through the darkest valleys. Even in moments of fear or despair, His presence offers comfort and protection. This passage underscores the assurance that Christ walks alongside us, providing steadiness and hope. Encourage your audience to trust in His faithful guidance through life's twists and turns, knowing He can bring peace even in the shadow of death.

3. Provision in His Presence

Psalm 23:5-6

Maybe conclude with the promise of God's abundant blessings and eternal care as depicted in the Psalm's closing. The imagery of a prepared table and overflowing cup speaks of God's generous love and provision. Connect this to the ultimate fulfilment in Christ, who prepares a place for us, promising eternal goodness and mercy. Empower your congregation to embrace the assurance of God's everlasting presence, motivating them to live fearlessly and with gratitude.

The names of God illustrated by Psalm 23. Ps. 23:1. Jehovah-reah, the Lord my Shepherd. Gen. 22:14. Jehovah-jireh, the Lord will provide. Judges 6:24. Jehovah-shalom, the Lord send peace. Ex. 15:26. Jehovah-rophi, the Lord that healeth. Jer. 23:6. Jehovah-tsidkenu, the Lord our righteousness. Eze. 48:35. Jehovah-shammah, the Lord is there. Isa. 58:11. Jehovah-nakah, the Lord will guide thee. Isa. 1:9 (Rom. 9:29). Jehovah-sabaoth, the Lord of hosts. Ex. 17:15. Jehovah-nissi, the Lord my banner. Jer. 51:56. Jehovah-gemulah, the Lord of recompense.

D. L. Moody, Notes from My Bible: From Genesis to Revelation (Chicago; New York; Toronto: Fleming H. Revell, 1895), 68.

INVITATION:

I heard of a party where guests were asked to amuse each other with a joke, a poem, a song, a trick, some ‘magic’ or whatever. A professional actor recited Psalm 23. Everyone clapped. A Christian guest had intended to read Psalm 23. After he heard the actor, he became very unsure. But the guests insisted he should read it. So, he did—from his heart. No one clapped after that. A ‘holy hush’ and some tears followed. He was asked why it was that silence and tears came after he read the psalm, whereas the actor was applauded. He replied: “Well, he knew the Psalm, but I know the Shepherd.” Do you know the ‘Good Shepherd’, the Lord Jesus Christ, personally? If not, you can come to know Him as your Good Shepherd.

Gerard Chrispin, A Devotional Experience of the Psalms: Enjoying the Riches of God’s Treasure Chest (Day One, 2023), 73.

This quote from Dietrich Bonhoeffer in Life Together, might be one of the most profound things I've ever read:

In confession a man breaks through to certainty.  Why is it that it is often easier for us to confess our sins to God than to a brother? God is holy and sinless, He is a just judge of evil and the enemy of all disobedience.  But a brother is sinful as we are.  He knows from his own experience the dark night of secret sin.  Why should we not find it easier to go to a brother than to the holy God?  …We must ask ourselves whether we have not often been deceiving ourselves with our confession to God, whether we have not rather been confessing our sins to ourselves and also granting ourselves absolution.

Who can give us the certainty that, in the confession and forgiveness of our sins, we are not dealing with ourselves, but with the living God?  God gives us this certainty through our brother.  Our brother breaks the circle of self-deception.  A man who confesses his sin in the presence of a brother knows that he is no longer alone with himself; he experiences the presence of God in the reality of the other person.