…for you are with me (Psalm 23:4)

Psalm 23 is the most loved psalm of the Old Testament. It has two scenes. The first is a shepherd and his sheep; the second, a host and his guest. In each, the twin themes of providence and protection are illustrated. In the first scene, God as a shepherd tends his flock near green pastures and still waters. He also protects them with his rod and staff. David begins this scene with a statement of trust, “the Lord is my shepherd….”

In the second scene, God as a host provides for his guest (David) by serving him at a table with an overflowing cup. He honors and refreshes David with anointing oil. And he protects David from the enemies who stand by silent, observing. David ends this scene with another statement of trust, “I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever….”

The two scenes hinge on a single statement of fact and faith: “for you are with me.” That is the beating heart of the psalm and of David’s trust in the Lord. And the two scenes show what it means to have God as our Maker, Defender, Redeemer, and Friend.

Jesus’ last words recorded in the Gospel of Matthew are these: “Behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.” He walks with us through this dry and weary land; he protects us from surrounding enemies; he provides all we need and that richly. What a great and magnificent promise!

Do you believe it?