Trusting the Good Shepherd: Provision, Protection, and Pursuit
Summary
### Summary
Welcome to Commonplace Church. Today, we delve into Psalm 23, one of the most beloved and universally recognized chapters in the Bible. This Psalm speaks deeply to people, often associated with peace, calm, and God's abundant provision, even in times of grief. Psalm 23 reveals three primary qualities of God: He provides, protects, and pursues His people.
David, the author of this Psalm, begins by declaring, "The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not want." This statement highlights God's role as a shepherd, a caretaker, and a leader. Throughout the Bible, from Genesis to the New Testament, God is depicted as a shepherd, emphasizing His leadership and care for His flock. As sheep, we are utterly dependent on God, and this dependence is not an insult but a recognition of our need for His guidance and provision.
God's provision is evident in the way He meets our needs. David's declaration, "I shall not want," signifies trust in God's provision. This trust is not about indifference but contentment, knowing that God meets our deepest needs. Even in the face of unmet needs, we can trust that God knows what we truly need. This trust extends to our daily lives, where God provides rest, nourishment, and spiritual refreshment.
The Psalm also speaks of God's protection. Even when we walk through the valley of the shadow of death, we need not fear, for God is with us. His rod and staff comfort us, symbolizing His protection and guidance. This protection is not just from external threats but also from internal struggles. God restores our souls, lifting us up when we are down and guiding us back to the right path.
Finally, God's pursuit of us is evident in His relentless love and care. He prepares a table for us in the presence of our enemies, anoints our heads with oil, and ensures our cups overflow. This imagery of a prepared table signifies God's generous and attentive care, even in the midst of opposition. God's goodness and mercy follow us all the days of our lives, leading us to dwell in His house forever.
Psalm 23's promise of life with God, green pastures, still waters, and restored souls is available to all who come to Jesus, the Good Shepherd. Through Jesus, we find true life, abundant life, and eternal rest. This Psalm invites us to trust in God's provision, protection, and pursuit, knowing that He is with us every step of the way.
### Key Takeaways
1. God as Our Shepherd: God is depicted as a shepherd throughout the Bible, emphasizing His role as a caretaker and leader. This imagery highlights our dependence on God and His compassionate care for us. Recognizing ourselves as sheep is not an insult but an acknowledgment of our need for His guidance and provision. [04:20]
2. Trust in God's Provision: David's declaration, "I shall not want," signifies trust in God's provision. This trust is not about indifference but contentment, knowing that God meets our deepest needs. Even in the face of unmet needs, we can trust that God knows what we truly need and provides accordingly. [10:10]
3. God's Protection in the Valleys: Even when we walk through the valley of the shadow of death, we need not fear, for God is with us. His rod and staff comfort us, symbolizing His protection and guidance. This protection is not just from external threats but also from internal struggles, as God restores our souls and guides us back to the right path. [30:44]
4. God's Generous Care: God's care for us is generous and attentive, as depicted in the imagery of a prepared table in the presence of our enemies. This signifies that even in the midst of opposition, God provides for us abundantly. His goodness and mercy follow us all the days of our lives, leading us to dwell in His house forever. [38:17]
5. The Good Shepherd, Jesus: Psalm 23's promise of life with God is fulfilled through Jesus, the Good Shepherd. Through Jesus, we find true life, abundant life, and eternal rest. This Psalm invites us to trust in God's provision, protection, and pursuit, knowing that He is with us every step of the way. [44:22]
### YouTube Chapters
[0:00] - Welcome
[01:31] - The Universal Appeal of Psalm 23
[02:26] - Peace Amidst Grief
[03:06] - God's Provision, Protection, and Pursuit
[03:43] - The Lord as Our Shepherd
[04:20] - Biblical Imagery of Shepherds
[06:19] - Our Role as Sheep
[07:43] - Dependence on God
[08:39] - God's Compassion
[10:10] - Trust in God's Provision
[11:37] - Contentment in God's Provision
[12:59] - Dayenu: It Would Have Been Enough
[14:19] - God's Provision in the Details
[15:41] - God's Care for Our Needs
[17:16] - Rest in God's Provision
[19:54] - The Need for Rest
[21:18] - Finding Quiet with God
[22:45] - God Restores Our Souls
[24:11] - The Vulnerability of Sheep
[25:34] - God's Gentle Restoration
[26:45] - God's Compassionate Correction
[28:00] - Paths of Righteousness
[29:19] - Walking Through the Valley
[30:44] - No Fear in the Valley
[32:01] - Peter's Doubt and Faith
[33:36] - God's Presence in the Valley
[35:06] - Personal Prayer in Hard Times
[36:42] - The Path to True Life
[38:17] - God's Generous Care
[39:47] - God's Prepared Table
[41:23] - Overflowing Cups of Grace
[42:52] - God's Pursuit of Us
[44:22] - Jesus, the Good Shepherd
[45:56] - Invitation to Trust in Jesus
[47:06] - Prayer and Closing
Study Guide
### Bible Reading
- Psalm 23
- John 10:11-15
- Isaiah 40:11
### Observation Questions
1. What are the three primary qualities of God highlighted in Psalm 23 according to the sermon? [03:06]
2. How does David describe his relationship with God in Psalm 23:1, and what does this signify about his trust in God? [04:20]
3. What imagery does David use in Psalm 23 to describe God's protection and guidance? [30:44]
4. How does the sermon explain the significance of the phrase "I shall not want" in Psalm 23:1? [10:10]
### Interpretation Questions
1. How does the imagery of God as a shepherd in Psalm 23 help us understand our dependence on Him? [07:43]
2. In what ways does the sermon suggest that God's provision goes beyond just meeting our physical needs? [14:19]
3. How does the sermon interpret the "valley of the shadow of death" in Psalm 23:4, and what does it teach us about facing difficult times? [29:19]
4. What does the sermon suggest about the relationship between Psalm 22 and Psalm 23, and how does this deepen our understanding of Jesus' role as the Good Shepherd? [36:42]
### Application Questions
1. Reflect on a time when you felt God's provision in your life. How did it impact your trust in Him? [10:10]
2. The sermon mentions that recognizing ourselves as sheep is not an insult but an acknowledgment of our need for God's guidance. How can you embrace this perspective in your daily life? [07:43]
3. How can you find "still waters" and "green pastures" in your current life situation? What practical steps can you take to ensure you are resting in God's presence? [17:16]
4. The sermon talks about God's protection in the valleys of life. How can you remind yourself of God's presence and protection during challenging times? [30:44]
5. The imagery of a prepared table in the presence of enemies signifies God's generous care even in difficult circumstances. How can you cultivate a sense of gratitude and trust in God's provision, even when facing opposition? [38:17]
6. Jesus is described as the Good Shepherd who lays down His life for the sheep. How does this understanding of Jesus' sacrifice influence your relationship with Him and your daily walk of faith? [44:22]
7. The sermon invites us to trust in God's provision, protection, and pursuit. What specific area of your life do you need to surrender to God's care, and how can you take a step towards doing that this week? [45:56]
Devotional
Day 1: God as Our Shepherd
God is depicted as a shepherd throughout the Bible, emphasizing His role as a caretaker and leader. This imagery highlights our dependence on God and His compassionate care for us. Recognizing ourselves as sheep is not an insult but an acknowledgment of our need for His guidance and provision. The Bible frequently uses the metaphor of a shepherd to describe God's relationship with His people, from Genesis to the New Testament. This consistent imagery underscores the importance of understanding our dependence on God and His unwavering commitment to our well-being.
As sheep, we are vulnerable and often unaware of the dangers around us. A shepherd's role is to guide, protect, and provide for the flock, ensuring their safety and nourishment. Similarly, God, as our shepherd, leads us to green pastures and still waters, restoring our souls and guiding us on the right path. This relationship is built on trust and recognition of our need for His care and direction. [04:20]
Ezekiel 34:11-12 (ESV): "For thus says the Lord God: Behold, I, I myself will search for my sheep and will seek them out. As a shepherd seeks out his flock when he is among his sheep that have been scattered, so will I seek out my sheep, and I will rescue them from all places where they have been scattered on a day of clouds and thick darkness."
Reflection: In what areas of your life do you need to acknowledge your dependence on God as your shepherd? How can you actively seek His guidance and provision today?
Day 2: Trust in God's Provision
David's declaration, "I shall not want," signifies trust in God's provision. This trust is not about indifference but contentment, knowing that God meets our deepest needs. Even in the face of unmet needs, we can trust that God knows what we truly need and provides accordingly. Trusting in God's provision means believing that He is aware of our needs and will provide for us in His perfect timing and way.
This trust extends to our daily lives, where God provides rest, nourishment, and spiritual refreshment. It is a call to be content with what we have, knowing that God is in control and will supply all our needs according to His riches in glory. This contentment is not passive but an active trust in God's goodness and faithfulness. [10:10]
Matthew 6:31-33 (ESV): "Therefore do not be anxious, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear?’ For the Gentiles seek after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them all. But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you."
Reflection: What is one area of your life where you struggle to trust in God's provision? How can you practice contentment and trust in His faithfulness today?
Day 3: God's Protection in the Valleys
Even when we walk through the valley of the shadow of death, we need not fear, for God is with us. His rod and staff comfort us, symbolizing His protection and guidance. This protection is not just from external threats but also from internal struggles, as God restores our souls and guides us back to the right path. The valleys in our lives represent times of difficulty, fear, and uncertainty, but God's presence provides comfort and assurance.
God's protection is multifaceted, encompassing both physical and spiritual aspects. He guards us against external dangers and internal turmoil, offering peace and restoration. His rod and staff are tools of guidance and correction, ensuring that we stay on the path of righteousness. In the midst of our darkest moments, we can find solace in knowing that God is with us, providing the strength and courage to face our challenges. [30:44]
Isaiah 41:10 (ESV): "Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand."
Reflection: Think of a recent challenge or difficult situation you faced. How did you experience God's protection and guidance during that time? How can you remind yourself of His presence in future valleys?
Day 4: God's Generous Care
God's care for us is generous and attentive, as depicted in the imagery of a prepared table in the presence of our enemies. This signifies that even in the midst of opposition, God provides for us abundantly. His goodness and mercy follow us all the days of our lives, leading us to dwell in His house forever. God's care is not limited to our immediate needs but extends to every aspect of our lives, ensuring that we are well-provided for and protected.
The imagery of a prepared table highlights God's hospitality and generosity. He invites us to partake in His blessings, even when we face opposition or challenges. This abundant provision is a testament to His unwavering love and commitment to our well-being. God's goodness and mercy are constant companions, guiding us through life's journey and leading us to eternal rest in His presence. [38:17]
Psalm 36:7-8 (ESV): "How precious is your steadfast love, O God! The children of mankind take refuge in the shadow of your wings. They feast on the abundance of your house, and you give them drink from the river of your delights."
Reflection: Reflect on a time when you experienced God's generous care in your life. How can you cultivate a heart of gratitude and trust in His provision, even in the face of opposition?
Day 5: The Good Shepherd, Jesus
Psalm 23's promise of life with God is fulfilled through Jesus, the Good Shepherd. Through Jesus, we find true life, abundant life, and eternal rest. This Psalm invites us to trust in God's provision, protection, and pursuit, knowing that He is with us every step of the way. Jesus, as the Good Shepherd, embodies the qualities of provision, protection, and relentless love, offering us a relationship that is deeply personal and transformative.
Jesus' role as the Good Shepherd is central to our understanding of God's care and commitment to us. He laid down His life for His sheep, demonstrating the ultimate act of love and sacrifice. Through His life, death, and resurrection, we are offered the gift of abundant and eternal life. This relationship with Jesus invites us to trust Him fully, knowing that He is always with us, guiding and caring for us. [44:22]
John 10:14-15 (ESV): "I am the good shepherd. I know my own and my own know me, just as the Father knows me and I know the Father; and I lay down my life for the sheep."
Reflection: What does it mean for you to trust Jesus as your Good Shepherd? How can you deepen your relationship with Him and experience the abundant life He offers?
Quotes
### Quotes for Outreach
1. "The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not want. It's an iconic verse, I think. And one thing you may notice, depending on your Bible, particularly in the ESV that we use primarily here at Commonplace, is that there are a lot of footnotes attached to it. You may notice that there are a lot of different things that say it could be translated this way or it's this. And one reason I think that might be is because the King James Version of this is definitely the most recognizable." [03:43] (24 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2. "It's that the Lord, the Creator God, the one true living God, is referred to as a shepherd. Right above that, you'll notice the Psalm's authorship is attributed to King David, who was also a shepherd. When he was selected by God to be king, he was out shepherding, shepherding the flock. So this was a role he was familiar with. But it goes back even further. In the Bible, it says, in the creation story of Genesis, Adam, the first human being ever created by God, is assigned the role of caring for the animals in the garden. And Abraham was a shepherd. Moses was a shepherd." [04:20] (38 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3. "And I think, I don't think it's supposed to be an insult, but I do think the sooner that you accept that you have a propensity to be a little foolish sometimes, maybe a little naive, the sooner you'll embrace following Jesus. There's just a correlation there. It's okay to own that, right? The term Christian was originally intended to be derogatory, just these little Christs running around, and it was repurposed as a badge of honor. In 2024, the term Christian probably is kind of becoming derogatory again to the culture, depending on how it's used." [07:07] (31 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4. "And the thing is, I'm not so sure that God will be able to, God's able to do anything, but when we're too busy, we're too stimulated, we're too distracted to lie down, to sit still, to be with him. You know, God will lead us there, but we still have to drink the water, right? There's an element of human agency in this. That God will lead us to the quiet places. God will provide those things, but we have to sit and stop and eat and drink to be refueled." [22:45] (30 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5. "And if Jesus needed quiet recuperation, how much more do we, right? And the thing is, I'm not so sure that God will be able to, God's able to do anything, but when we're too busy, we're too stimulated, we're too distracted to lie down, to sit still, to be with him. You know, God will lead us there, but we still have to drink the water, right? There's an element of human agency in this. That God will lead us to the quiet places. God will provide those things, but we have to sit and stop and eat and drink to be refueled." [22:45] (37 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
### Quotes for Members
1. "And so you may be wondering, why would a psalm that speaks of peace and calm and abundant tables of food and overflowing cups and goodness and mercy be associated with grief so often? And if you're asking that question, I think you're starting to get it. And so that's what we'll talk about. I know it's likely that this psalm means a lot of different things to a lot of different people, just because of how well-known it is." [02:26] (25 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2. "And now, just getting this part out of the way, if we're faithful to this analogy, right, that God is shepherd, what would that make us? Sheep, that's right. The sheep, because he's the shepherd of the sheep herd. That's how that word works. Most people don't enjoy being called sheep. I think it's kind of an insult today, like sheeple, you know? Like it's not like a compliment, and it kind of means sheep. You can't think for yourself, you blindly follow, you go along with the crowd. There's no distinction between you and other people." [06:19] (38 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3. "And the thing is, I'm not so sure that God will be able to, God's able to do anything, but when we're too busy, we're too stimulated, we're too distracted to lie down, to sit still, to be with him. You know, God will lead us there, but we still have to drink the water, right? There's an element of human agency in this. That God will lead us to the quiet places. God will provide those things, but we have to sit and stop and eat and drink to be refueled." [22:45] (30 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4. "And if Jesus needed quiet recuperation, how much more do we, right? And the thing is, I'm not so sure that God will be able to, God's able to do anything, but when we're too busy, we're too stimulated, we're too distracted to lie down, to sit still, to be with him. You know, God will lead us there, but we still have to drink the water, right? There's an element of human agency in this. That God will lead us to the quiet places. God will provide those things, but we have to sit and stop and eat and drink to be refueled." [22:45] (37 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5. "And if Jesus needed quiet recuperation, how much more do we, right? And the thing is, I'm not so sure that God will be able to, God's able to do anything, but when we're too busy, we're too stimulated, we're too distracted to lie down, to sit still, to be with him. You know, God will lead us there, but we still have to drink the water, right? There's an element of human agency in this. That God will lead us to the quiet places. God will provide those things, but we have to sit and stop and eat and drink to be refueled." [22:45] (37 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
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