Timeless Biblical Truth.
Believers desire to be in the presence of their LORD who is a diligent Shepherd and a generous Host.
- Believers find that the LORD, like a good shepherd, provides for their spiritual and physical well-being (1-4).
- The LORD provides spiritual nourishment (1-2a).
- The LORD provides spiritual refreshment (2b-3a).
- The LORD provides guidance in the right lifestyle (3b).
- The LORD defends His people in times of danger (4).
- Believers find that the LORD, like a generous host, provides for His people’s spiritual and physical needs (5).
- Believers desire to be in His presence and enjoy His blessings (6).
“Depth and strength underlie the simplicity of this psalm. Its peace is not escape; its contentment is not complacency; there is readiness to face deep darkness and imminent attack, and the climax reveals a love which homes towards no material goal but to the Lord Himself.”
Derek Kidner: Psalms 1-72, p. 109.
Questions for Second Milers
- Why does David think of the LORD as a shepherd and host? What characteristics do they share?
- What is the implied relationship between the two clauses of verse 1? What is the relationship between the last clause of verse 1 with verses 2-4?
- What is significant about the use of pronouns (“my”, “me” “I”)?
- What is happening in verse 4 that causes David to shift from description to direct address (from “He” to “you” “your”)?
- What are the “time” elements in this psalm? What do they imply?
- Contrast: (i) rest and activity, (ii) fear and comfort, (iii) danger and security, and (iv) want and provision. What do these contrasts reveal about God and about yourself? How do they apply in your life?
- In what ways is the LORD your shepherd and host?
- Give your own title to this psalm.
Lanny Tanton is the Pastor at The Bible Church of the Lakes in Horseshoe Bay, Texas – just outside of Marble Falls. Pastor Tanton welcomes you to our website and hopes that you’ll enjoy reading these insightful blog posts. Please contact us if you have further questions!!
