A thought about Psalm 23

One word can do all things......

As this morning I once again read the passage of scripture known as Psalm 23, there is one word that kept jumping off the page at me. It was the word "HE"

It first starts off by saying who He is, our shepherd. The good shepherd that is always tending to and looking after his flock. Then it reminds us not to want.

Why is it that we shall not want?

Because HE does the rest. HE makes us lie down in green pastures, the place of rest. HE leads us beside the still waters, a place of trusting in Him. HE restores our soul, one touch of His hand and we are made whole. HE leads us in the path of righteousness, for His name's sake.

It is Him not us that gives us any ability to do anything, including loving and trusting Him. It is He that makes our heart right, and gives us the capability to love even Him, let alone others.

The Psalm goes on.... Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil. Why don't we have to fear, even of death? The last part of the verse tells us, For You are with me. HE is with us and we have nothing to fear. Why? Because we have the rod and staff to comfort us. The rod which symblizes the defence against an enemy and keeps us on the right path through discipline. The staff that gently brings us back to the fold and guides us on our path.

HE prepares a table before us in the presence of our enemies, HE annoints our head with oil. Once again we are shown it is Him who gives us what we need and we need not fear our enemies. He is the one who will make us holy and annoited.

The Psalm then ends in praise and thankfulness. My cup runs over; surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life; and I will dwell in the house of the Lord Forever.

How fitting for all He has and still does for us. It is HE that does all things and gives us a hope and peace. It is fitting that we sing praises to his name. Make a joyful noise, for HE gives us all things! Blessed be the name of the Lord!