Best Shepherd Ever And Forever

The 23rd Psalm is the most well-known, most beloved, most memorized, and most quoted passage in the entire Bible. This short, simple song is arguably the most refreshing and reassuring segment of Scripture. Its beautiful, poetic words have ministered to countless souls in countless situations. Throughout the centuries, people from all over the world in all stages and stations in life have turned to it to find comfort, peace, and hope. Even though it was written some 3000 years ago, no other portion of God’s Word is more relatable/relevant to our lives than Psalm 23. It addresses the entire spectrum of human experience and that is why it sounds equally appropriate whether it is read at a wedding or a funeral. It applies to every believer both young and old; to brand-new Christians and seasoned saints alike; to those who are taking their first steps in following the Shepherd to those who have been walking with the Lord for many years; and to those who are rejoicing and to those who are mourning. This familiar psalm can be divided into SIX SECTIONS all of which celebrate what a good and faithful shepherd God is for His sheep.

1. THE SHEPHERD’S PERSON (v. 1)

2. THE SHEPHERD’S PEACE (v. 2)

3. THE SHEPHERD’S PLAN (v. 3)

4. THE SHEPHERD’S PROTECTION (v. 4)

5. THE SHEPHERD’S PROVISION (v. 5)

6. THE SHEPHERD’S PALACE (v. 6)

APPLICATION QUESTIONS James 1:22 says, “Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says.” These questions are designed to help you apply today’s message to your life. We encourage you to thoughtfully answer these questions and discuss your answers with others. For more information about joining a Grow Group that uses these questions as the basis for weekly discussion, prayer, and accountability, please call the church office at (936) 582-1977.

1. How familiar are you with Psalm 23? What is your favorite verse or phrase in this beloved psalm? How has God used it to provide you with peace, comfort, and hope?

2. Why did God use the shepherd/sheep analogy to describe His relationship with His people? How are you like a sheep and how is God like a shepherd in your life?

3. Even though God provides the very best care for you, why are there times that you are discontent and dissatisfied? What are some things you seek pleasure, comfort, or refuge in besides God?

4. How do you personally and practically graze on and drink in God in order to find peace and rest in your life? What are some “righteous ruts” God has helped you establish in your life?

5. Whenever you wander away from God, how does He use His Word (cf. Ps. 19:7; 2 Tim. 3:16), other people (cf. Gal. 6:1), and trials (cf. Ps. 119:67, 71, 75; Hosea 6:1) to restore you to Himself?

6. What is the hardest, scariest valley God has led you through in your life so far? How did God show His goodness and mercy to you? How did He use that situation to draw you closer to Him?

7. You may know Psalm 23 but do you know the Shepherd? Do you have a personal relationship with God because you have repented of your sin and placed your faith in the person and work of His Son Jesus Christ (cf. 1 Pet. 2:24-25)? Or are you still a sheep without a shepherd (cf. Mt. 9:36)?

8. Praise God for being the best shepherd ever! Thank Him for all the times and ways He has cared for you and provided for you and protected you. Ask Him to forgive you for being discontent and dissatisfied with Him and wandering away to look for something more as if He is not enough. Ask Him to help you trust His goodness and lovingkindness and to use you to lead others into His fold.

“Whatever awaits us is encountered first by Him, and the eye of faith can always discern His majestic presence out in front….This is the blessed life—not anxious to see far down the road nor overly concerned about the next step, not eager to choose the path nor weighted down with the heavy responsibilities of the future, but quietly following the Shepherd, one step at a time.” L.B. Cowman, Streams In The Desert, January 14