We move next to a part of this wonderful Psalm 23 that we might not understand takes lots of work on the shepherd’s part. It is “You prepare a table before me.” Mr Keller talks about all the work involved in preparing a prairie before his flock could graze upon it during the summer months. Certain plants were actually poisonous to them, so he and his children had to painstakingly pull every one out for the sheep’s benefit. He says, “Though tedious and tiring with all of the bending, it was a case of ‘preparing the table in the presence of my enemies.’ And if my sheep were to survive, it simply had to be done.” (p127) The more I read this book and see all the trouble that goes into caring for sheep, the more I am so very grateful for all our Good Shepherd has, and continues to do on our behalf. Please never think act Jesus is not near to you and more than willing to help you avoid any poisonous thought or decision. Our Good Shepherd is always, and only, a prayer and a heartbeat away and continues to prepare for our safe voyage through life. We sheep must simply stay at His side.
Whether a poisonous plants or a stealthy cougar, the sheep are always in danger, but the shepherd is also always on the look out for their safety. The author says, “The same is true of Christians. Many of us get into deep difficulty beyond ourselves; we are stricken dumb with apprehension, unable even to call or cry out for help; we just crumble under our adversary’s attack. But Christ is too concerned about us to allow this to happen. Our Shepherd wants to forestall such a calamity. He wants our mountaintop times to be tranquil interludes. And they will be if we just have the common sense to stay near Him where He can protect us.” (p131) Let’s make this our number one priority in life. Staying near to Jesus in our heart, thoughts, words and deeds leads to the fulfilling life we desire, because it is the life God has prepared for His children to live.
2023’s Got A Minute? Book Club
January: The First & Best Book Ever: The Bible
February: Love Is In the Air: “The 5 Love Languages: The Secret to Love That Lasts” by Gary Chapman
March: Spring Growth: “Secrets of the Vine” by Bruce Wilkinson
April: Living the Resurrected Life: “The Wonderful Spirit Filled Life” by Dr Charles Stanley
May: My Spiritual Mom: “Making Good Habits Breaking Bad Habits” by Joyce Meyer
June: Spiritual Dad: “It’s Not About Me- Rescue from the Life We Thought Would Make Us Happy” by Max Lucado
July: Financial Freedom “Complete Guide to Money” by Dave Ramsey
August: Summer’s Soul Restorer “A Shepherd Looks At Psalm 23” by W Phillip Keller
<>< Peace, Diane
