An Old Friend

Daily Reading // Psalm 21-23

(Find the daily reading on Pastor Jim’s Blog)

https://jholm5.wixsite.com/pastor-jim-blog

S // SCRIPTURE

Select a verse from today’s reading

Psalms 23:1-6 (NKJV) 1 A Psalm of David. The LORD [is] my shepherd; I shall not want. 2 He makes me to lie down in green pastures; He leads me beside the still waters. 3 He restores my soul; He leads me in the paths of righteousness For His name’s sake. 4 Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil; For You [are] with me; Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me. 5 You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies; You anoint my head with oil; My cup runs over. 6 Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me All the days of my life; And I will dwell in the house of the LORD Forever.

O // OBSERVATION

Why did this verse get your attention? Make a simple observation from the text

Today I rest in the truth and the comfort of Psalm 23. The 23rd psalm is like a lifelong friend. Always there when you need him. Giving perspective in difficult circumstances. Providing a place to rest your weary bones.

Even in this psalm, full of confidence and rest, there are realities all around. This psalm is not devoid of challenges. It is victory in spite of the challenges.

(v1) - ‘want’: something I am lacking

(v4) - ‘valley’: a low place

(v4) - ‘shadow’: darkness, confusion

(v4) - ‘death’: the absence of life

(v4) - ‘fear’: the threat of destruction

(v4) - ‘evil’: the perversion of good

(v5) - ‘enemies’: those who seek my harm

A // APPLICATION

How can I apply this to my life today?

My life doesn’t have to be trouble free to be a place of trust and rest. I can have comfort in very uncomfortable times.

This psalm reminds me that God and His promises are never far away. No matter what seems to be pressing upon me, God has an answer. He has green pastures for me. He has still waters. He will restore my soul, anoint my head and fill my cup.

God is so much bigger than the troubles of this life. I rest in Him now.

And I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever!

P // PRAYER

Express yourself in prayer

Good Shepherd, My confidence for this day is in You. You have given my soul rest even this morning. I receive Your peace. Amen.