By Pastor Dr. Aggrey Soyekwo
Meditative reflection of Psalm 23
Psalm 23:1
The LORD is my shepherd, I shall not be in want.
(I acknowledge the LORD God Almighty, as my Shepherd and purposefully take refuge in Him. The love, care, protection, provision and presence of my Shepherd God, is enough for me. I need nothing more, for in Him dwells all the riches to meet my every need as His sheep)
Psalm 23:2
He makes me lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside quiet waters,
(He meets my every need, as a sheep would have its fill of lush green pastures and cool fresh waters. He settles my mind, as He leads me in quiet peace, helmed around from every side in His protective presence, free from harm)
Psalm 23:3
he restores my soul. He guides me in paths of righteousness for his name’s sake.
(Even if I stray from His ways, and waves of trouble destabilize my soul, He restores me to peaceful rest in Himself and then guides me in paths of righteousness to follow. He does this for His name’s sake. He has my best interests in mind)
Psalm 23:4
Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me.
(There may be times of extreme life trials in which hope of living seems to fade and death is so close. Even in that point I shall not fear. Your assured presence will not fail and leave me to die in the hand of the enemy. The shepherd’s rod and staff in your hand, for correction, protection and safety, gives me confidence of your unfailing protection)
Psalm 23:5
You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies. You anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows.
(As if to confound my enemies and those who seek my demise more, in their full sight, you set a feast of celebration and victory for me. The enemy only helplessly watches my victory celebration, completely defeated. My head is anointed, in preparation for your service, and your bountiful blessings I can’t fully contain as they flow over)
Psalm 23:6
Surely goodness and love will follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the LORD forever.
(Is this victory, favor, love and goodness of God for me temporary? No. But for as long as I live in Him. For this reason, I purpose to dwell in His secure comforting presence, out of the reach of the enemy, from where I was hewn and truly belong, forever).