I was just reading through Psalms 23, probably the most famous chapter in the bible. I was taught to memorize it when I was young and I still remember it quite well. God’s word remains the same but my understanding of it has changed significantly. Back when I was young, the words were quite literal to me and they didn’t make much sense. But as I grew older, things do seem to clear up a bit.
I observed four things that we get as a result of following this through in our lives. Before I mention these things, I noticed that there are a lot of “He’s” and a lot less of “I’s” throughout the chapter. When God is our Shepherd, we become less and He becomes more. I must be lower but he must always be higher.
1) You have His protection – “…Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me…” (Verse 4)
2) You have His blessings – “…You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies. You anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows…” (Verse 5)
3) You have His peace – “…He makes me lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside quiet waters, he refreshes my soul. He guides me along the right paths for his name’s sake…” (Verse 2-3)
4) You have His assurance – “…Surely your goodness and love will follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever…” (Verse 6)
If you are lacking any of these in your life, the first question you should ask yourself would be, “Is God my Shepherd still? and Am I able to hear His voice and obey?”. I hope this will be an encouragement to you all. God bless you.