The 23rd Psalm is probably read or recited more often than any other chapter in the Bible, and with good reason. With these 118 simple, yet powerful words, David managed to express in clear and concise terms exactly what it means to be held in the comforting hand of our almighty God. And what a mighty hand it is!
Regardless of what dangers, troubles and trials we’re faced with throughout the course of our earthly lives, if we place our trust in the Lord and hold within our hearts and minds the knowledge that we’re saved by His amazing grace we can more easily weather the storms of life while looking forward to life eternal in a place where sadness and troubles will never again rear their ugly heads. In heaven, all will be peace, joy and love as we bask in the presence of our beloved Saviour forevermore.
Like most people, you have probably been to your share of funerals where the preacher opened up his Bible and began reading those comforting words as you and your family grieved beside the casket of a dear loved one who had passed on to the other side. And if you’re like me, you could almost feel the weight of the world lift from your shoulders as he spoke those 118 words of soothing comfort and hope.
You see, if the person lying in that casket had accepted the Lord Jesus Christ as his/her personal Saviour, the last breath they took was immediately followed by the first one they took in heaven. What a comforting thought that is to a grieving Christian! Of course you were still deeply saddened by the loss of your loved one, but for him/her, sadness is now a thing of the past with nothing but peace and joy to take its place!
But the 23rd Psalm isn’t just for funerals – it can also provide the comfort and strength we need to make it through those days when it seems like the world is against us and satan is trying his best to drag us down into the miry clay of worry and self-pity. There is just something about the message contained in those 118 blessed words that can help drive away the problems of the day and send the devil packing “for a season”.
Simply put, the 23rd Psalm is a message of mercy, comfort, hope and grace, and it’s literally there in black and white for all to read and enjoy within the pages of the Holy Bible – the Word of our almighty and merciful God.
- Psalms 23…
The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want.
He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters.
He restoreth my soul: he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name’s sake.
Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me.
Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies: thou anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over.
Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the LORD for ever.