Words of Encouragement
Psalm 23
My Dear People
One of the best known Psalms is Psalm 23. I am sure that all of us have come across that Psalm in many different ways:
- As homework at school when we had to recite it
- As a Sunday School lesson
- As an anthem sung by a choir
- As lesson read in church.
In Psalm 23, David explains that if we follow the Lord and trust Him, He will meet our every need, no matter what the circumstances may be.
“The Lord” is Jehovah God, the covenant making God of Israel. The compound names of Jehovah in the Old Testament reflect the contents of this psalm.
I trust you will find the following interesting and will use it as you meditate and ponder on the Word of God.
- “The Lord my Shepherd,” - He is Jehovah Ra’ah
- “I shall not want”—Jehovah-Jireh, the Lord will provide” (Gen. 22:14)
- “He leads me besides still waters”—Jehovah-Shalom, “the Lord our peace” (Judg. 6:24)
- “He restores my soul”—Jehovah-Rophe, “the Lord who heals” (Ex. 15:26)
- “He leads me in paths of righteousness”—Jehovah Tsidkenu, “the Lord our righteousness” (Jer. 33:16)
- “For you are with me”—Jehovah Shammah, “the Lord is there” (Ezek. 48:35)
- “In the presence of my enemies”— “Jehovah-Nissi, “the Lord our banner” (Ex. 17:15)
- “You anoint my head”—Jehovah M’Kaddesh, “the Lord who sanctifies” (Lev. 20:8)
Following the Shepherd is not a chore, but the way to an abundant life. When the shepherd calls, be quick to follow. After all, you are his!
God bless you.
Reverend Gilmore
