Psalm 23:2 He makes me to lie down in green pastures: he leads me beside the still waters. I. DIVINE PROVISION FOR NEEDED REST. The picture presented is that of happy satisfaction and calm delight. Even for timid sheep all sense of danger is gone, and the whole aspect of the flock speaks of peace, quiet, repose. It tells of a soul in harmony with God, passion hushed, discord in the unruly will, and the struggle of sinful desire destroyed. II. DIVINE PROVISION FOR APPROPRIATE SUSTENANCE. "Pastures of grass, and waters of quietness." Supply not only sufficient, but suitable for the needs of the flock. It answers to the Gospel — the good tidings of God and from God, a proclamation of what God is, and how God feels towards us. Says George Eliot, — "The first condition of human goodness is something to love, the second, something to reverence." In the character of our Lord Jesus Christ we have that which inspires both love and reverence. III. DIVINE PROVISION FOR RENEWAL OF STRENGTH. Few creatures are more helpless than sheep. The thought of God as physician to His flock brings Him into most intimate and close relationship. IV. DIVINE PROVISION FOR ACTIVE SERVICE. He will lead, and it will always be in righteousness. No guarantee for character like that of God's leadings. Character is not predestinated. It is won by achievement, and it will be won if we follow where God leads. "For His name's sake" — that is the secret of all His kindness, and it is the secret of our consecration. (George Bainton.) Parallel Verses KJV: He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters.WEB: He makes me lie down in green pastures. He leads me beside still waters. |
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