Wesley's Notes on the Bible He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters. 23:2 Lie down - To repose myself at noon, as the manner was in those hot countries. Green - Where there is both delight and plenty of provisions.
He restoreth my soul: he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name's sake. 23:3 Restoreth - Heb. He bringeth it back; from its errors and wandering. For - Not for any worth in me, but for the glory of his justice, and faithfulness, and goodness.
Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me. 23:4 Thy rod and thy staff - Two words denoting the same thing, and both designing God's pastoral care over him.
Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies: thou anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over. 23:5 A table - Thou furnishest me with plenty of provisions and comforts. Oil - With aromatic ointments, which were then used at great feasts; thy comforts delight my soul. Runneth over - Thou hast given me a plentiful portions, signified by the cup, given to the guests by the master of the feast.
Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the LORD for ever. Explanatory Notes on the Whole Bible by John Wesley [1754-65] Bible Hub |
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