Psalm 23 Catalina Foothills Church December 30, 2023
Quotes
It is the very character of God to cherish his sheep and
when they are diseased or weak to nurse and support them. --John Calvin
We have all things and abound; not because I have a good store of money in the bank, not because I have skill and wit with which to win my bread, but because the Lord is my shepherd. ― Charles Spurgeon
The comfort is the presence of the shepherd in the midst of the danger rather than the comfort of the removal of the danger. --David Gibson
It is an utterly staggering thing to have as your shepherd the one who is strength itself, who never tires, never slumbers, and who never needs protection himself.
–David Gibson
Your Shepherd didn't just say you're going to the valley. He said you are going through the valley. In other words – you are going to make it. ― Louie Giglio
For discussion
Read the text through 2 or 3 times. What key words strike you? How is God pictured? What opportunities are presented for the follower of Christ?
The first and last lines of the psalm has the personal and covenant name of God…..Yahweh. (English Bibles signify this by saying “the LORD”. Note the small caps) Thoughts?
The very middle of the psalm contains the simple promise of God’s presence: Thou art with me. There are 26 words that lead up to “you are with me” and 26 words that follow. During the first 26 words God is referenced in the 3rd person. The final 26 words focus on God’s presence with us with the psalmist speaking TO God in the 2nd person. Thoughts?
I will not lack…. Because Yahweh is my shepherd. Discuss.
Where/when/about what ----are you tempted to think that you do indeed lack?
I will not fear…. Because THOU ART WITH ME.
Discuss
I shall dwell in the house of Yahweh…. Because Yahweh will bring me home. Discuss
Other Scripture
Isaiah 42:3 Jeremiah 2:6 John 10 John 4