GOODNESS AND MERCY

The 23rd Psalm might be the most quoted scripture from the Old Testament. In all of its allegorical beauty, it reveals the comfort, reassurance, and provision made available to Christians. Jesus affirmed that David's song of praise was written about Him ... 

I am the good shepherd, and know my sheep, and am known of mine. John 10:14

As we again read this endearing passage, I ask that you focus a moment on the last line ... it speaks of His 'goodness' and 'mercy'. 

The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters. He restoreth my soul: he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name's sake. Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me. Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies: thou anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over. Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever.

Goodness and Mercy are like God's 'sheepdogs'. He assigns them to each follower of Christ; sometimes to bark out warnings when we go astray, other times to encourage us when we are unsure of the path, but most importantly ... to protect us from the enemy. (often referred to as 'wolves in sheep's clothing')

Spurgeon - These twin guardian angels will always be with me at my back and my beck. Just as when great princes go abroad they must not go unattended, so it is with the believer. Goodness and mercy follow him always - all the days of his life - the black days as well as the bright days, the days of fasting as well as the days of feasting, the dreary days of winter as well as the bright days of summer. Goodness supplies our needs, and mercy blots out our sins.

It is said that at a reception, a famous actor was asked to give a recitation. An old preacher suggested Psalm 23. He did it with great oratorical skill and sat down to prolonged applause. Then he turned to the elderly preacher and asked him to recite the Psalm. In a weak and trembling voice, the kindly man uttered the same simple words, but no one applauded this time. People instead began to wipe away their tears.

The actor rose again. “Ladies and gentlemen,” he said, “I communicated with your ears and your eyes. I know the words. But my old friend here communicated with your hearts. He knows the Shepherd.” 

Examine your relationship with Jesus Christ ... is it based on religious rites and doctrines of men?  

Do you know 'words' or do you know the 'Shepherd'?