Among Christians, some of the most often quoted and beloved Old Testament scriptures are found in the 23rd Psalm. In very few words, these six verses paint a vivid picture of God’s overwhelming care for His children. The imagery of a shepherd knowing and caring for his sheep speaks to our helplessness as we, as God’s children, attempt to navigate the harsh terrain of a sin sick world. Without our shepherd, the tumult of everyday life makes it hard to find true spiritual nourishment. Without our shepherd, we would not find absolute rest and would always feel vulnerable. We need to ask ourselves these questions: Do I put myself completely and faithfully into the hands of my shepherd, Jesus? Do I really trust him for all things? Is Jesus the true shepherd of my life, or do I merely give him that title?
Verse 5: You prepare a table… under the eyes of my enemies – The Lord prepares a rich “table” of blessings for us. Our enemies might not be right there, but they can see what is happening. They are observing and almost feeling the defiance of the shepherd who has taken care of his sheep and is celebrating with his sheep.
Sheep who follow understand that their privilege cannot be undone by the presence or influence of evil ones: Psalms 91:1,4-7: (NASB) He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High will abide in the shadow of the Almighty. He will cover you with His pinions, and under His wings you may seek refuge; His faithfulness is a shield and bulwark. You will not be afraid of the terror by night, or of the arrow that flies by day; of the pestilence that stalks in darkness, or of the destruction that lays waste at noon. A thousand may fall at your side and ten thousand at your right hand, but it shall not approach you.
“Dwelling in the shelter of the Most High” means we have the advantage of the protection of God Almighty through Jesus. We do not have to fear the terror by night. Our enemies may cause “a thousand to fall at our side, ten thousand at our right hand,” but it shall not approach us. Even under the eyes of our enemies, we still have the blessing of following the shepherd and all that he has prepared for us.