S) "4 Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death,
I fear no evil, for You are with me;
Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me."
Psalm 23:4 (NASB)
O) This is perhaps the most famous of all of the Psalms. When the whole song is taken into account, we can find that David was praising the LORD for just about every aspect of blessings that are given in life. In order, from v.1 through v.6, he mentions provision, rest, peace, healing, guidance, encouragement, relationship, comfort, victory, anointing, abundance, goodness, love, and communion. It is no wonder this is so popular. There are a few things to bring into context. First of all, David was anointed by Samuel the prophet according to the LORD (i.e., anointed by God) to be king over Israel. Within v.5, the words "You have anointed..." are perhaps more accurately translated, "You anoint..." which gives them an infinitive, ongoing conjugation. This entire Psalm really hinges on that fact, that David was under the blessing of that anointing. The reason I chose the verse above, is because of the last line. Remembering that David related the LORD as his shepherd, we then know that the rod and staff were the shepherd's rod and the shepherd's staff. In that context, the rod and staff were often used to forcibly pull, push, herd a wayward sheep back among the flock. I am not a sheep, but I imagine that could sometimes be painful. But, David saw this as an expression of love and discipline, that would keep him close with his Shepherd. Even if it came with some unease or even pain, it was ultimately a comfort to know that the Shepherd was doing so to keep him in line, because of the love the LORD had for him.
A) This is a very rich song, with many aspects that are worth remembering. On that note, it would be worthwhile to memorize Psalm 23. Even if I do not, though, this particular verse is another strong reminder that the close presence of my Lord is a comfort through the darkest of times. This is a reminder that the discipline of the LORD, or even just the struggles He allows in my life, may very well be to keep me close through otherwise dangerous times (dangerous physically, emotionally, relationally, or other). David drew a lot of confidence from the fact that he had been anointed as king (and perhaps more accurately, was being anointed). Similarly, I am anointed with the Holy Spirit. That really means that this entire psalm could be applicable to my life, in one manner or another. At the least, I am comforted by the proximity of the LORD my God.
P) Father, You have blessed me so much in grace, mercy, and love. Just as this psalm of David reminds me, Your blessings are so beautifully complex, and remarkably complete. In You, I have been given everything I need, and all that I could ever want. Open my eyes and ears, to recognize Your blessings, to know Your ways more. I am humbled and thankful for the way I have been blessed. Remind me, when hard times come, that You are always close. Even in discipline, or unease, You comfort me through circumstances that You have allowed in my life. Through them, I can know that You see me, that You are near, that You have not and will not forsake me. Thank you. In Jesus's name I pray. Amen.
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