Psalm 23:1-6 The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want.… I. FAITH'S RECOGNITION (ver. 1). "The Lord is my Shepherd." A spiritual recognition made through the medium of His surroundings, Faith makes the same recognition today. It is an old recognition. It is a comforting recognition. Recognising God as our Shepherd, what an infinitude of tenderness, watchfulness, love, and carefulness that recognition involves! "I shall not want." This is no guarantee against poverty; because poverty may be, in the Divine estimation, better for us than riches. It is no arrant for indolence or thriftlessness. Work and diligence in it are again and again commended. No want would be universal were it not for these two widespread evils! II. FAITH'S EXPERIENCE (vers. 2, 3, 5). Ver. 2 expresses repose rather than feeding. Repose in "pastures of tender grass," hard by the "waters of quietness." It is also expressive of satisfaction. "To lie down." Sheep stand to eat, but lie when filled. Life only finds satisfaction in God; the world is too small to fill the soul. The fulness of the Godhead alone can meet this moral necessity. Ver. 3 sets forth restoration and guidance. Leadeth, not driveth. Law drives, love leads. Example is more forceful than command. Eternal footprints He has left on the pathway of virtue, patience, purity, self-sacrifice, benevolence, obedience, that we may plant our feet in them and be as He was in this world. Ver. 5 suggests plenty and protection. God gives banquets in unlikely places and at unexpected times. III. FAITH'S PROSPECT (vers. 4, 6). 1. Celestial attendants all the days of life. 2. Companionship in the shadowed valley. Inspiring confidence and courage; and preventing unrest and disquietude. (J. O. Keen, D. D.) Parallel Verses KJV: {A Psalm of David.} The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want. |
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