Bible verse of the day; John 14:16And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another advocate to help you and be with you forever
Daily Devotional; Psalm 23 encourages us with at least three truths about God as our Shepherd. First, He provides all we need: “I lack nothing” (v. 1). This doesn’t mean our wish list is His agenda. God’s provision for us is based on His wisdom and sovereign purposes. But as His sheep, we can be sure His “goodness and love will follow me all the days of my life” (v. 6).
Second, “He guides me along the right paths” (v. 3). This requires both knowledge of righteousness and practical wisdom to choose it in our daily lives. This is “for his name’s sake”—His glory is always the primary purpose. Finally, God is always with us (v. 4). This is true even and especially in the darkest valleys or circumstances. His presence means we need fear no evil. Many generations of believers have claimed this powerful promise. Notice how the psalmist refers to God directly as “you” here. This truth was very personal for him!
>> Which verse of this psalm best describes your current circumstances? Are you enjoying green pastures? Or, are you in the depths of a dark valley? In either case, rejoice and trust in God’s loving care.
23:1 The Lord is my shepherd, I lack nothing.
23:2 He makes me lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside quiet waters,
23:3 he refreshes my soul. He guides me along the right paths for his names sake.
23:4 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.
23:5 You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies. You anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows.
23:6 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.
Summary; This psalm, written by King David, the former shepherd boy, may have been composed near the end of David’s life. He was well acquainted not only with sheep and shepherding but also with the Lord as his shepherd. The psalm has a pastoral setting that is vastly different from David’s previous psalm (Psalm 22), which evokes the image of a battlefield. Psalm 23 is meant to inspire calm.
Closing Prayer; Heavenly Father, calm our hearts with the truths that David proclaims. In Your wisdom You provide all we need, guiding us in righteousness and dwelling with us through both dark and peaceful times. In Jesus name we pray. Amen.
Prayer of Salvation: Which is how you ask to become a child of Our Heavenly Father. Lord Jesus, I confess my sins and ask for your forgiveness. Please come into my heart as my Lord and Savior. Take complete control of my life and help me to walk in Your footsteps daily by the power of the Holy Spirit. Thank you Lord for saving me and I know you will answer my prayers. In Jesus name I pray. Amen.
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