A word fitly spoken is like APPLES OF GOLD in a setting of silver – Proverbs 25v11
Over the past couple of weeks we have been enjoying some good things in Psalm 23 and today we conclude with verse 6: Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life; And I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever
Up to now the Psalmist has emphasised that the Shepherd (the Lord) leads us, but the reality is that there are enemies who are constantly seeking to attack us from the rear. The Psalmist assures us that we have two guards following us namely goodness and mercy. Who or what is goodness? Goodness simply means “the steadfast love of the Lord” and we have the assurance that the Lord’s love guards us and protects us 24/7. Mercy is defined as not getting what we deserve-for instance when a judge finds someone guilty and doesn’t impose a sentence he shows mercy. We are all guilty of sinning against God, but instead of punishing us the Lord not only forgives us, but provides a bodyguard called mercy. Knowing we are followed by mercy we no longer have to be anxious because he protects us from feelings of guilt about our shortcomings or failings. Friends do you know Jesus as your Good Shepherd? If so are you at peace because goodness and mercy are following you?
For all those who know Jesus as their Shepherd the psalm ends with the confident proclamation “we will dwell in the house of the Lord forever”. Jesus promised all His followers “And if I go and prepare a place for you, I am coming again and will take you to Myself, so that where I am, there you also will be.”-John 14v3
God Bless
Graeme Greenwood