Hobart Herd Devotional – Psalms 23 – 5-22-20
As I was meditating on these verses I began to remember what the Lord does for me continually. The first 3 verses bring out the Provision of the Lord. He takes care of my physical needs by providing me everything I need with the best care I could ask for.(vs. 1-2) In verse 3 I am given a picture of how He meets my spiritual needs by restoring my soul and leading me in paths of righteousness for His glory!
How would I ever make it in this world without His presence? Verse 4 gives me the comfort of His presence that removes fear and brings strength in our darkest hour. One of the hardest things about this time of “stay at home” is the lack of being able to be there as the Lord’s representative in the loss of loved ones and times of sickness. The only consolation I have is that I know that those who have put their trust in the Lord will know His Presence at times when no one else can be there with them.
The 5th verse gives me peace at times when my enemies surround me. The picture of being able to see the Lord bring peace and joy in the midst of my greatest trials. I am so glad that as I walk in the Lord’s presence there is the joy that overflows from knowing that His purpose and will is being done in my life. No enemy can take away the “well done” good and faithful servant that changes my sorrow into joy!
In keeping with the “P’s”, verse 6 tells me of His Promise of Paradise with Him in heaven forever. Oh the strength that comes from knowing His goodness and mercy is mine as I live for His kingdom here on earth and the promise of eternity with Him forever in His House! I am reminded of John 14:1-3 where He promises to prepare a place for us and come again to bring us into His eternal Kingdom!
Father, all I can say is thank you for sending us our Shepherd in the person of the Lord Jesus Christ! As I meditate on all Your Provision, Presence, Peace, and Promise my cup truly does overflow. May I never forget that You are with me and that everything I have is found in My Shepherd, Jesus Christ. May You receive all the glory for the testimony of my life in You. In Jesus Name, Amen! Pastor Rob