The Shepherd And His Sheep: A Devotional Exposition of Psalm 23

The 23rd Psalm. We read it in our times of loss. We quote it for comfort in difficult times. We inscribe it on plaques to hang on the walls of our homes; "Do more beloved words exist? Framed and hung in hospital rooms, scratched on prison walls, quoted by the young and whispered by the dying. In these lines, sailors have found a harbor, the frightened have found a father, and strugglers have found a friend." Max Lucado But could it be that the amazing spiritual legacy contained in this psalm is sometimes overlooked because of our familiarity with it? Do we really understand that in this Psalm alone, we have all we need to live successfully in this world and to be prepared for the one to come? The purpose of this book is to take an in-depth look at one of the most beloved portions of scripture of all times, the 23rd Psalm; to mine spiritual riches from every phrase and word, seeking for understanding as one would search for hidden treasure: Proverbs 2:1-6 (AMP); “My son, if you will receive my words and treasure my commandments within you, 2 so that your ear is attentive to (skillful and godly) wisdom, and apply your heart to understanding (seeking it conscientiously and striving for it eagerly); 3 yes, if you cry out for insight, and lift up your voice for understanding; 4 if you seek skillful and godly wisdom as you would silver and search for her as you would hidden treasures; 5 then you will understand the (Reverent) Fear of the LORD (that is, worshiping Him and regarding Him as truly awesome) and discover the Knowledge of GOD. 6 For the LORD gives (skillful and godly) wisdom; from His Mouth come knowledge and understanding.” Psalm 23 is part of a sequence of psalms that explores the symbolism of the LORD as the Shepherd of His people. Psalms chapters 22-24 are often referred to as the “shepherd psalms.” 1. In Psalm 22, YAHWEH is portrayed as the Good Shepherd. The chapter is a prophecy foretelling the death of the LORD Yeshua Hamshiach (Messiah/the Christ) for the sins of mankind. 2. In Psalm 23, the subject of this study, He is portrayed as the Great Shepherd who seeks lost sheep and brings them into His Flock. 3. In Psalm 24, the LORD is the Chief Shepherd who is portrayed as coming in power and glory as King of Kings. Most Bible scholars conclude that Psalm 23 was written by David when he was a young man serving his father, Jesse, as a shepherd. In these six verses, David shares a spiritual analogy of the LORD as a Shepherd and His people as sheep, drawing from the extensive knowledge and experience which he gained as a shepherd. As a good shepherd, David knew his sheep by name, his sheep knew his voice, and they followed him. David knew that a good shepherd never leaves his sheep alone and that he searches for lost sheep to restore them to the flock. He is also called the Great Shepherd and the Chief Shepherd: Hebrews 13:20 (AMP); “Now may the GOD of Peace (the source of serenity and spiritual well-being) who brought up from the dead our LORD Jesus, the great Shepherd of the sheep, through the blood that sealed and ratified the eternal covenant.” If you do not know the LORD as your personal Savior, the Good Shepherd wants you to join His Flock. If you already know the LORD as your Shepherd, then this book explains the rich spiritual legacy provided for you as recorded in Psalm 23. The goal of this book is not information, but revelation. Its purpose is to enable you to come to know the Good Shepherd and become intimately acquainted with Him. It is time to begin our spiritual trek. The Shepherd has provided everything you need for the journey. You need no map or directions, for He will lead the way. So, let's begin.