The 23rd Psalm (Part 6)
Written by
Sandra Dean
Good morning!
Joke of the Day:
Why can’t you hide from God’s goodness?
Because it always follows you!
Let’s continue on with looking at the very famous 23rd Psalm.
Today’s Scripture is
The Lord is my shepherd I shall not want.
He makes me lie down in green pastures.
He leads me beside still waters.
He restores my soul.
He guides me in paths of righteousness
for His namesake.
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.
You prepare a table before me
in the presence of my enemies.
You anoint my head with oil
and my cup overflows.
Surely, goodness, and mercy will follow me
all the days of my life
and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever.
—Psalm 23
I looked up what the phrase “will follow me” means. One definition is to stay close behind someone or something.
David, the writer of this psalm, said that something would stay close to him all the days of his life. What was it? The goodness and mercy of God!
Let’s look at those two words:
Goodness means being morally good and doing what is right.
Mercy means showing compassion and forgiveness, even when someone deserves punishment.
Goodness and mercy are part of God’s character. They describe who He is.
What could be more wonderful than knowing that God’s goodness and mercy stay close to us every day of our lives? And then David gives us one more incredible promise: “I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever.” That means everyone who trusts in Jesus will live with God forever in heaven.
Wow! I can’t even imagine how wonderful heaven will be. Maybe that’s one reason Psalm 23 has become one of the most loved and memorized chapters in the entire Bible.
Let’s Pray Together
Father God, Your goodness and mercy are amazing. Help us remember every day that You are always with us, caring for us and loving us. Thank You for the promise that one day we will live with You forever. We love You. Amen.