I love the seven blessings of Psalm 23

On a trip through the countryside of England years ago, I enjoyed watching thousands of sheep.

I didn’t know it, but some sheep can be mean!  I hope that’s not me!

Jesus is our “Great Shepherd.”  

Here are seven things Psalm 23 tells us about the beautiful things He does for you daily:

1. He gives you provision.

“I shall not want.”  Only a lousy shepherd lets his sheep not have what they need.  

The Lord is a “good shepherd.”  He oversees His flock with intimate care.  

He knows you and your needs intimately.  Trust Him today for full provision. He is responsible and generous in meeting all your needs.

2. He gives you peace.

“He makes me lie down….and leads me by still waters.”

Jesus knows what is good for us.  We don’t need constant tension, multi-tasking, or stress.

We need a break.  We need a Sabbath.  We need rest.  

Use well the times He gives you for “peace and quiet.”

3.  He heals your wounds. 

“He restores my soul.”  

A wound can fester under the wool of a sheep.

If someone has hurt, disappointed, attacked, or failed you, you need His hands to find that wound.

Let Him heal your soul through His Word.

4. He protects you in difficult times.

“Though I walk through the valley….you are with me.”

David had been through a whole lot of dark times with Saul.  He said, “I am one step from death.”

The Holy Spirit is ever-present.

He is walking beside you, guiding you with His rod and staff.  He will never leave you or forsake you.

5. He gives you victory.

“He prepares a table before you in the presence of your enemies.”

Satan is defeated.  Jesus rose from the dead.  

No matter how much it looks like you are losing a battle, Jesus has “overcome the world.”

Your enemy has to watch and be miserable as you enjoy the table of benefits Christ paid for.  VICTORY.

6.  He gives you joy.

“He anoints my head with oil.  My cup runs over….”

Oil represented joy. It was called the “oil of joy.”  

Paul rejoiced in prison.  Jesus “rejoiced in spirit.”  Learn to smile, laugh, and yield to the Holy Spirit in difficult moments.  

Praise is a weapon.  Joy is a force within you that changes your circumstances.  It is not a feeling; it is an act of faith.

7. He gives you security..

“I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever.”

We are a permanent part of the Lord's house. He will lead us into His glorious presence.

“Goodness and mercy will follow us all the days of our lives.”  We will enjoy His presence here on earth and His eternal presence in heaven.

Wow!

Live as if He will provide every need.  Live in rest and peace.  

Live in healing.  Live in His protection.

Enjoy His victory.  Stay filled with His joy.

Abide in His security..

What a great Shepherd.