Having a banquet with the Good Shepherd
You prepare a feast for me in the presence of my enemies. You honor me by anointing my head with oil. My cup overflows with blessings. Surely your goodness and unfailing love will pursue me all the days of my life, and I will live in the house of the Lord forever. Psalm 23:5-6
In the eyes of the world, Christians seemed to be lacking in the things of the world. Yet, the good Shepherd promises that for Christians satisfaction is not found only in the things of the world. It is found in the loving provision of the good Shepherd. “I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd sacrifices his life for the sheep” (John 10:11). God is even more than a shepherd who provides for the wants of his sheep. He is a King who lavishes His bounty in rich provision for His followers. The sheep lie down satisfied with the rich provision of the Shepherd, in the green pastures and by the refreshing waters, so they sit down satisfied with the rich provisions of the table of the Lord. The enemies will try to thwart this wonderful experience yet they will be no match to the power of the Shepherd. Christians are safe and secured for the Shepherd will always protect them. Each of the Old Testament names for God has been portrayed in this psalm. Names of God such as “Jehovah-Jireh” which means the Lord is my provider, “Jehovah-Rapha” which means the Lord will heal or restore, “Jehovah-Shalom” which means the Lord is the source of peace, “Jehovah-Shammah” which means the Lord is always near, and “Jehovah-Raah” which means the Lord my Shepherd. This Psalm shows that God through Jesus Christ is all that they ever need. As the little child said when asked to quote Psalm 23:1 she said, “The Lord is my Shepherd—what more shall I want?” Christians are not left alone or unattended because God’s goodness and mercy will follow them all the days of their lives; the black days as well as the bright days, the days of fasting as well as the days of feasting, the tedious days of winter as well as the bright days of summer. God’s goodness supplies your needs and His mercy blots out your sins. On this fact, remain steadfast holding on to His promises found in His word. Live your life fully committed in obedience to the life He had set before you. “So, my dear brothers and sisters, be strong and immovable. Always work enthusiastically for the Lord, for you know that nothing you do for the Lord is ever useless” (1 Corinthians 15:58).
Blessings.
