Facing Our Fears and Anxieties
A Study of Psalms 22 – 24
Table of Contents
Chapter 1 Fear and Anxiety 2
Chapter 2 Introduction to Psalms 22 – 24 5
Chapter 3 Psalm 22 7
Chapter 4 Psalm 23 15
Chapter 5 Psalm 24 26
Chapter 6 Conclusion 32
Chapter 1 Fear and Anxiety
What I have seen during the last few months is an epidemic, not of the virus kind, but rather an epidemic of fear and anxiety. All too often this is coming from my Christian friends. Maybe we should be reminded of what GOD has to say about the matter.
2 Timothy 1:7 – For GOD has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind.
It has been said Fear’s close relative is Anxiety. If not handled appropriately, fear and anxiety will lead to depression. Indeed, the Bible makes that clear.
Proverbs 12:25 – Anxiety in the heart of man causes depression, but a good word makes it glad.
The medical community tells us, regarding our mental health, there is a connection or continuum that begins with fear and anxiety and progresses into depression if not handled appropriately. There are many among us who have struggled with fear and anxiety over the last 12 months. If we are too long in the valley of fear and anxiety, depression will be the result.
It shouldn’t come as a surprise that this did not originate in the medical community but in the Scriptures. It is my hope that our study here will plant many good words in your heart. Words from the pages of GOD’S word that will indeed make your heart glad.
Is it wrong for us to be fearful and anxious?
Maybe, before we answer this question, we should clarify a few things. What is fear?
Solomon wrote, “Fear GOD and keep His commandments…” Eccl 12:13
And yet…
The phrase, “Fear not” or “be not afraid” is found 180 times in Bible.
There is clearly a type of fear that is forbidden.
In the case of Solomon’s words in Ecclesiastes the word fear means reverence. We are to reverence GOD and keep His commandments.
In the 2nd case, the fear being condemned indicates a lack of faith.
Matt 8:26 – Why are you fearful, O you of little faith?
It is not the will of GOD for us to be in a perpetual state of anxiety, dread, doom and gloom. This lingering spirit of fear is not from GOD. I know this based on the following passage.
2 Timothy 1:7– For GOD has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind.
I am not a trained therapist. I am a Bible teacher. As such, there may be some disagreement from the professional community with some of my observations. But my intent is to see what the Bible has to say about the subject.
It is interesting to note the 1st time we see the word “afraid” in the Scriptures. It is found in Genesis 3:10. Immediately following the fall of man, Adam answering to GOD, said, “I heard Your voice in the Garden and I was afraid…” There is a safe implication that there was no fear prior to the fall.
We likely think of fear negatively but it is a God-given emotion that serves a very real purpose. It is an emotion that sends a person into a self-protective mode. I recall an episode of seeing a copperhead snake directly in front of me while on my running trail. I was immediately paralyzed, my heart rate increased even more, and I naturally stepped back and momentarily froze. That was real fear! Fear normally produces fight, flight, or freeze.
Fear is a natural emotion. However, it is not meant to be a lasting or prolonged feeling. It is when fear becomes a state of on-going dread that it becomes anxiety. I believe that is why Paul said to Timothy, “GOD has not given us a spirit of fear…” Being a fearful person, should not be a description of the Christian’s life.
This “spirit of fear” is really describing a person with anxiety.
As a general rule, fear sees a threat. This threat is real. It is not an imagined threat. This is the copperhead on my running trail. This fear immediately produces fight, freeze or flight.
Anxiety on the other hand often deals with a perceived threat. It is an imagined threat. Anxiety can be a series of “What if’s…” What if I lose my job? What if my home is broken into? What if I get the virus? And on and on…
When fear is lasting, or when things are imagined, or when the feeling of fear is out of proportion to the real danger present, then we likely enter a state of fearfulness. This is NOT natural and I believe this is what is being condemned in 2 Timothy 1. GOD has not given us a spirit of fear. This spirit of fear is anxiety.
Stated concisely:
Fear results in fight or flight. Anxiety results in an ongoing attitude of doom and gloom.
The purpose of this study is to examine sources of help from GOD’S word that will help us deal with fear and anxiety. There are many verses one would do well to commit to memory. Calling on these during times of fear and anxiety should be our first line of defense. In addition to individual passages, there are entire chapters of Scripture that help. Chapters like John 14 or Romans 8 come to mind.
Our study will be a look at 3 Psalms that are wonderful sources of encouragement when we struggle with fear and anxiety.
Let me state one caveat. Sometimes the anxiety must be handled professionally through counseling and/or even through medication. I don’t want to imply that these suggestions will fix all cases. There are cases in which professional help is needed. But in many cases as Christians, our anxieties can be helped through prayer and the study of Scripture.
Chapter 2 Introduction to Psalms 22 – 24
Arguably, the most comforting chapter in the Bible is Psalm 23. It is certainly one of the more familiar Scriptures we have. It is a powerful study and a comfort to many in times of sorrow, being frequently read at funerals. I would guess the majority of the funerals I have attended included the 23rd Psalm.
As much as I love Romans 8, it is my opinion, the only other Scripture that comes close to Psalm 23 for comfort is John 14. In the past year, we have looked at both Romans 8 and John 14, as part of a larger series. The series can be found by searching YouTube for “Glenn Taylor Fear and Anxiety” or by clicking on the link below.
Before we look at the 23rd Psalm, we should note, the 23rd Psalm is fully appreciated only when studied in the context of Psalms 22 thru 24. This trilogy is a thrilling study. Though I will struggle to adequately present the material, let us take a look at these three Psalms together.
As we look at these 3 Psalms, remember the context of our series. Any study of the Scriptures will strengthen our faith and in so-doing will aid us in seeking comfort in GOD’S word, but some sections are just ripe with lessons of comfort. For example, 1 Pet 5:7 – casting all your cares on Him for He cares for you. Or consider Rom 8:28 – we know that GOD causes all things to work together for good…
Such is the case with these 3 Psalms. They are powerful sources of comfort when we struggle.
The 23rd Psalm begins with a familiar theme of the shepherd. The LORD is my shepherd. All 3 of the Psalms in question are written by David, who himself was a shepherd. We should note the theme of sheep and shepherding is found throughout the New Testament often applying to the LORD.
There are 3 New Testament passages I want to visit by way of introduction to our study.
John 10:11 – Jesus said, “I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd gives his life for the sheep.” Really the whole chapter of John 10 is related.
Hebrews 13:20-21 – Now may the GOD of peace who brought up our LORD Jesus from the dead, that great Shepherd of the sheep…make you complete…working in you” (note the present tense)
1 Peter 5:4 – and when the Chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the crown of glory (future tense).
I point these passages out to make this point. Scripture identifies Jesus as the ˡGood Shepherd, the ²Great Shepherd, and the ³Chief Shepherd. These 3 Psalms can be linked with those 3 terms.
Psalm 22 – He is the Good Shepherd who dies for the sheep – see John 10:11.
Psalm 23 – He is the Great Shepherd who lives for the sheep and cares for them – Heb 13:20-21.
Psalm 24 – He is the Chief Shepherd who comes for the sheep to take them to glory – 1 Pet 5:4.
The tenses are important.
Psalm 22 – He died for me – past tense (Jn 3:16 – For GOD so loved the world that He gave…)
Psalm 23 – He cares for me – present tense (Heb 13:21, working; Phil 2:13, GOD who works…)
Psalm 24 – He will come for me – future tense (1 Pet 5:4, you will receive)
With this brief overview of the three Psalms, we can now visit each one individually.
Chapter 3
Psalm 22 – The Good Shepherd Died for Me
Psalm 22 is sometimes called the Psalm of the Cross. It was written 100’s of years before crucifixion was used. The Persians are said to be the first to use crucifixion as a means of execution around 500 BC. They may have gotten it from the Assyrians’ practice of death by impalement in the 700’s BC. Psalm 22 is an amazing prophecy considering David lived around 1000 BC and thus Psalm 22 was written 3 Centuries before the Assyrians practice, 10 Centuries before the Romans used it to crucify Christ.
The Psalm describes in minute detail the crucifixion and along with Isaiah 53, is a prophecy of the death and burial of the LORD.
Psalm 22 gives us insight into the thoughts of the LORD as He hung on the cross. The Gospel accounts give us the historical record but here we have His thoughts revealed 1000 years before. The NT reveals that the LORD uttered 7 sayings from the cross. We have studied those in times past. Each saying makes for a wonderful lesson. Those 7 sayings are found in the Gospel accounts. If the direct quote is not found in Psalm 22, at least the background for each is found in the Psalm and many scholars think the LORD actually quoted the entire Psalm 22 from the cross. One example is v15 and recall His saying “I thirst” while on the cross.
It is not my intent to address all of these 7 sayings in this study, but Psalm 22 is clearly Messianic from the 1st verse.
My GOD, My GOD, why have You forsaken Me?
As we consider Psalm 22 in light of our discussion on dealing with Fear and Anxiety, note there will be 5 Lessons of Application we can take from the Psalm. The 1st one is taken from observing how the Psalm is divided.
The Psalm is clearly divided into 2 sections.
Section 1 – vv 1-21 – the suffering: the rejected Savior
Section 2 – vv 22 – 31 – the glory: the resurrected King
Therein lies our 1st lesson for us when we deal with fear and anxiety. When we suffer and are anxious. Remember the glory! The key word here is Perspective.
Remember Rom 8:18 – For I consider the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us.
It is a profitable study to consult these 2 ideas in Scripture.
Jesus said of Himself in Luke 24:26 – Ought not the Christ to have suffered these things and to enter into His glory?
Hebrews 2: 9 – But we see Jesus, who was made a little lower than the angels, for the suffering of death crowned with glory and honor…
Note the suffering and glory in each of these passages from 1st Peter. 1 Peter 4:13; 5:1, 10
When we suffer let us remember the glory!
Section 1 – Let’s make some observations about this 1st section
- There is a division or distinction in the 1st section
- Note the LORD speaks of Himself – v1-2; 6-8; 12-18
Feel the attention on self. If I count correctly, there are 35 pronouns here…My, I, Me…
- HE speaks of or to GOD – v3-5; 9-11; 19-21
I point this out because there is an important principle here as we deal with anxiety. During times of trouble, if we look only at ourselves, we are tempted to drown in our sorrows, our own self-pity. We absolutely can’t turn all of our thoughts inward. There is no way out if we do.
On the other hand, if we look only at GOD we may lose touch with reality. We must balance the realities of the needs in our own life with the faith we have in Christ to meet those needs. There must be a balance between self (in the sense of realizing my problems, admitting and owning them perhaps, and doing what I can) and GOD. It is an idea of Looking Inward and Looking Upward.
This is perfectly illustrated in Psalm 77 – turn and make a note.
VV 1-4 he groans; VV 7-9, he questions GOD; V10ff – relief comes as he counts his blessings
Psalm 77:10 – is the key verse to make the point…
And I said, “This is my anguish; “My anguish” implies he is taking ownership. This is reality. This is where I am. It is an inward look.
BUT read on…we emphasize the word “but” which makes a distinctive counterpoint.
But I will remember the years of the right hand of the Most High.” Remember the LORD.
Here the key is Balance – This is my anguish, But I will remember the LORD.
It is an Inward Look vs. an Upward Look
Let’s return to Psalm 77 and note this small but powerful word in Psalm 77:10 – The word “but”
I want you to remember the word “But” in the Scriptures.
Recall some powerful passages…
Heb 9:11 – after discussing the fact the Old Law could not forgive sins… But Christ came…
Rom 3:21 – after spending the early part of Romans describing the sinful condition of man…But now the righteousness of GOD…
Now as we return to Psalm 22, note that each of the 3 sections addressing GOD, begins with “But” (vv 3, 9, 19). Read each of these verses with the emphasis on “But”. Don’t miss the distinction because this is where our relief comes when we struggle with Fear and Anxiety. BUT we remember from where our HELP comes.
- V1 – c/f with Matt 27:46
Exactly why did GOD forsake Jesus at that time on the cross? The Hebrew, the Greek, and the Aramaic language of v1, all 3 make clear, Jesus’ cry means He was forsaken of GOD.
The Greek word in Mt 27 is egkataleipo which means to totally abandon. It is the same word found in Heb 10:25 (not forsaking the assembly of ourselves together…).
Totally abandoned.
Why did Jesus feel totally abandoned, forsaken by the Father?
It was at that time that the Savior shouldered the sins of the world. As He did, sin separated Him from GOD, just as it does with us. (Isa 59:1, 2 – Your iniquities have separated you from your GOD.) In the case of Christ, it was not His sins, He didn’t have any. It was MY sins.
V1c – the KJV and YLT (Young’s Literal Translation), have an interesting translation of this word groaning. The literal translation of the word is roaring. This is important when we consider the passage in Joel 3:16. Joel prophesying the coming Messiah and His crucifixion, says, The LORD also will roar from Zion…
Here’s the point. At the trial He was silent, at the crucifixion He said nothing, but when GOD forsook Him, He roared out and spoke these words that echo through time.
Note what seems to be a paradox. While Jesus was reconciling the world to GOD, it was at that point that GOD forsook the Savior. Why? Habakkuk 1:13 answers the question. GOD is too pure and holy to even look on sin. Jesus shouldered the sins of the world. For those 3 hours, GOD laid on Him the iniquity of us all (Isaiah 53:6).
Cross reference v6b to Isaiah 53:3.
- Vv 3-5, the LORD speaks of the Father.
Note again the word, BUT and earlier comments. In contrast to the inward focus (forsaken Me, helping Me, My groaning, etc.), the focus now turns to the Father
Now the look is upward. Note the following:
V3 – the Holiness of GOD
V3 – the glory of GOD – CSB (Christian Standard Bible) renders it, HE is enthroned on the praises of Israel
Vv 4-5 – the character of GOD; HE is trustworthy – they trusted, YOU delivered
- Verses 6-10
Here we have the description of His rejection by man.
How does this apply to us in our times of suffering? Our 3rd lesson for Fear and Anxiety will be found.
Before we note the Lesson for dealing with fear and anxiety, let me point out something interesting. Occasionally in worship as we sing, “Alas and did my Savior bleed, and did my Sovereign die…” I am reminded how as a child that song seemed so funny to me when considering the line – for such a worm as I. Now, some modern versions of the song (our song book, #135) has changed it to “for such a one as I.” I wish they hadn’t. The worm reference is scriptural. See v6. The line makes us realize the spiritual condition we are in as we stand in the presence of GOD.
Read vv 6-8. Note this is in the section where Jesus refers to Himself. The prophecy is making the point to describe the rejected Savior as He hung on the cross.
Now our Lesson of application comes from v8.
There is a false logic in lifting v8 out of context. Some would say, “If you live by faith, then GOD will deliver you from trouble.” But, note, such is not promised. Jesus was doing GOD’S will and yet the Father did not remove the cup from him. Jesus was not delivered from the suffering. See Matthew 26:39-44.
Paul prayed for the thorn in the flesh to be removed and yet it was not. (2 Cor 12) Paul was not delivered from the suffering.
Neither Jesus nor Paul were delivered FROM the suffering. However, both were delivered THROUGH the suffering. And in so doing, both honored and glorified GOD in the process.
Our 3rd Lesson of Application – Not From But Through.
As we suffer with fears and anxieties, we sometimes are not delivered from the suffering. Talk to someone who has recently buried a loved one. They will tell you “You don’t get over it, you get through it”.
“You weren’t delivered from it but you were delivered through it.” That is our promise from GOD and a lesson to remember when dealing with fears and anxiety.
- Verses 9-11
The Psalmist speaks prophetically of Jesus addressing the Father.
Note it begins with “But” to draw a distinction with the sentiment of vv 6-8.
Jesus placed the glory on the Father. In all things we are to glorify GOD – Matthew 5:16.
Note the ending of v10 – You have been My GOD – compare with the ending of v21.
- Verses 12-21 (12-18 and 19-21 the final exchange)
Verses 12-18, is a graphic picture of death by crucifixion. Followed by the look upward and the refocus on GOD in verses 19-21.
Again remember this was 100’s of years before such a practice was known as we see the description of the crucifixion.
How does this help us in our times of anxiety? Note how the LORD refocuses on the big picture on verses 19-21.
Our 4th lesson is similar to the 1st lesson as we consider Rom 8:18 and the word, Perspective.
Even in the horrendous pain and suffering physically and psychologically, the LORD continued to see the picture through the eyes of what was being accomplished spiritually. HE saw the big picture.
Can we do the same? Can we trust GOD enough, so that we seek His will to be done in our lives even through the suffering? Can we, like Paul, look for the Grace that will see us through our fears?? Is our faith strong enough to sincerely ask, “GOD what will you have me learn through this struggle? Help me to glorify YOU in this and all things.”
Please note the way the 1st section ends – v21c – YOU have answered Me.
Go back and link some of the passages together.
Go back to v4b – They trusted, and You delivered them.
Go down to v10c – You have been My GOD.
Go down to v21c – You have answered Me.
As we consider the next section, we’ll note v24 and the promise – YOU will hear!
- We now make a transition to the last section – the glory of the resurrected King!
This last section does not follow the same interchange as the 1st section. With V21, the crucifixion scene closes and the resurrection section, the glory section, opens.
V22 is quoted in Hebrews 2:12. It is not surprising that we find earlier verses of Psalm 22 quoted many times in the synoptic accounts of the Gospel, it is Messianic in nature. But here we have the only reference to Psalm 22 found outside the 4 Gospel accounts.
The word assembly in the NKJ, CSB, and NAS is translated congregation in the KJV and ESV. If one goes to the passage in Hebrews, the Greek word is Ekklesia, meaning the called out. What do we usually associate with this word? The word church.
Literally for us it would be, “In the midst of the church, I will praise You!”
Actually, the passage in Hebrews says – “In the midst of the assembly I will sing praises to You”
Praise is a key word in this last section. The emphasis in the 1st section was prayer.
Psalm 22 is a psalm of Prayer & Praise.
Praise is a common word found in the Psalms. The word is found 126 times in the Psalms. The next closest book it is found only 15 times. Note the word praise in vv 22, 23, 25, 26.
This is understandable since the Psalms are songs. Praising GOD with song. And now we see why the passage in Hebrews adds the word sing and connects praise and singing!
Later in Hebrews 13:15 – Let us continually offer the sacrifice of praise to GOD, that is, the fruit of our lips. Of course, that could be done by talking but let us never underestimate the importance of singing!
So what do we take away from this last section to help us in our times of struggle?
V24 reminds us that GOD has not forsaken us. He will hear our prayers.
The Psalm opens with v1 and the question “Why have YOU forsaken Me?”
But v24 assures us HE has not!
And therein lies our last Lesson of Application when dealing with Fear and Anxiety
HE has not hidden His face from Him – even though v1 was a cry, a roar.
Then we read in v24, “When He cried to HIM, HE heard.”
The Lesson? GOD is always there! Go back and connect, 4b, 10c, 21c, and 24c.
Review the 5 Lessons of Application from Psalm 22
1st lesson – the suffering and the glory – Perspective
2nd lesson – Inward look vs. Upward look – Balance
3rd lesson – we are not delivered from the suffering; we are delivered through the suffering
4th lesson – See the big picture and ask, “GOD what will you have me learn from this suffering?”
5th lesson – Psalm 22:24 – GOD is always there.
We are reminded in the closing verses of Psalm 22 of the eternal perspective.
V28 – a great truth.
V29 – every knee will bow – cross reference Rom 14:11; Phil 2:10.
Vv 30, 31 – Consider this: “the next generation and the people who will be born”.
Psalm 71:18 – Now also when I am old and grayheaded, O GOD, do not forsake me, until I declare Your strength to this generation, Your power to everyone who is to come.
My time here on earth is but a span, like a vapor according to James. But as I look at the big picture, what is really important? As I think about the people who will be born, my grandchildren and their children, what is really important?
Whatever it is with which I am now struggling – it won’t matter 50 years down the road. But what I do want to matter, is my faithfulness and love of the Father. I want my descendants and those in this body here at Northport, to remember my faithfulness in declaring His righteousness after I am gone.
Chapter 4
Psalm 23 – The Great Shepherd Cares for Me
In the introduction to our study of Psalms 22 through 24, we identified Psalm 23 as “The Great Shepherd” using Hebrews 13:20, 21. It is a Psalm, written in the present tense, providing comfort. See v4b Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me. Not will comfort me; not has comforted me; but now, in the present, they comfort me.
Recall that Psalm 22 was identified with the past, what the Savior did for me. HE died for me. Psalm 24 is concerned with the fact that Jesus is coming for me in the future. Psalm 23 is a lesson in the present tense, how He comforts and cares for me now. We’ll say more about the tenses later.
This may be the most popular chapter in the Bible. The LORD is my Shepherd, I shall not want. Some have noted that the 1st line of the Psalm could be a summary of all the Psalms. HE is all I need.
Brevity
Psalm 23 has only 118 words, 6 short verses. Much is said in this brief Scripture that only takes about 45 seconds to read. It is not deeply theological nor philosophical. It paints a very simple picture. Perhaps that is why it is so popular. Someone once said, “I don’t care how much a man has to say if he says it in few words.” Psalm 23 is powerful and said in few words.
In my opinion – John 14:1ff is the only passage that comes close to the level of comfort one finds in Psalm 23. Perhaps that is why this Psalm is read at so many funerals.
David is the author but many have wondered, did he write it as a shepherd boy or as an aged king? I tend to think it was written by the old king who never forgot the lessons he learned as a young shepherd boy. The older king’s thoughts may have been something like, “Yes, I remember watching over my father’s sheep in my younger days, but I am now keenly aware that at that time, GOD was watching over me.”
It appears to me that in this Psalm, one doesn’t have the thoughts of a young inexperienced person; rather you have David writing from maturity and experience that comes only from a long life of victory and hardships.
The 1st Line
The Psalm begins “The LORD is my shepherd”
Recite the 1st 5 words of the Psalm. Now answer this question, “Is He?”
Is the Psalm for everyone? No.
We have noted this idea in many of our comfort promises. For example, Rom 8:28, Rom 8:1, etc. These promises are all conditional.
He is my Shepherd if…
Rom 8:28 – I love GOD and am called according to HIS purpose
Rom 8:1 – I am in Christ
Gal 3:27 – For as many of you as were baptized into Christ have put on Christ.
We identified Psalm 22 with the “Good Shepherd” metaphor taken from John 10. In John 10:9, He says, “If anyone enters by Me, he will be saved…”
John 10:27 – My sheep hear My voice, and I know them, and they follow Me.
John 14:6 – I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me.
Now following our study of Psalm 22 and the crucifixion, we are safe in saying, we must know Jesus as the Savior, the Suffering Messiah, before we can claim Him as “my Shepherd.” It is not enough to know who He is; I have to know Him personally. He is my Shepherd! Not our Shepherd, my Shepherd.
The relationship described is a personal relationship.
The Center of the Psalm is The Heart of the Psalm
Psalm 23 is not the shortest Psalm (that would be Psalm 117) but it is relatively brief. We noted earlier it has 118 words in the English. In the Hebrew language it is only 55 words. The very center of the Psalm is this phrase found in v4, “For You are with me.”
If this was our only point it would be a good one. We are seeking comfort. Comfort is found. GOD, where are You when I am hurting? For You are with me.
Remember Psalm 22:21c – You have answered Me; v24 – when HE cried to Him, He heard.
23:4b – For You are with me.
Let us observe something I have previously overlooked. Notice that before this central idea, David speaks of GOD in the 3rd person. “HE does this” and “HE does that.”
But when we get to this center phrase, the Psalmist transitions into speaking to GOD directly, in the second person: for “YOU” are with me, “YOUR” rod and staff, “YOU” prepare, etc.
It is as though, the Psalmist takes a very personal turn with his thoughts. No longer speaking about GOD, we now are speaking to GOD! We said earlier it is not enough to know who Jesus is; we must know Him personally. Not enough to talk about GOD; we must talk to HIM!
We noted the Psalm is personal. The LORD is my shepherd and thus, YOU are with me.
I heard it said once this line notes the fact that GOD is with us and the presence of the Shepherd with us is the beating heart of this Psalm.
Let us stay with this thought in v4, “For You are with me” and consider it in the context of our series, “Fear and Anxiety”.
The Psalm is highly personal.
For You are with me; Your rod and your staff, they comfort me. V4b
Note the pronouns – my, I, me throughout the Psalm. 17 times, at least 2 times in each verse, we have the personal reference.
The Psalm opens with the Hebrew word, Yehova (Ye-ho-vah). Yehovah is my Shepherd. (A brief mention of the Tetragrammaton, YHWH, for the LORD with all caps is in order.)
26 words later we have “For You are with me.” (You, second person, singular, masculine – in Hebrew)
Then 26 more words – Yehova – v6c.
So don’t miss this point – the presence of the Shepherd is with us – from beginning to the end – when we are on the mountain top and when we are in the valleys of fear and anxiety.
The LORD is my shepherd;
For You are with me.
And I will dwell in the house of the LORD forever.
V1
Barnes describes this “I shall not want” statement as the topic sentence of the whole Psalm. The idea is carried throughout the Psalm. HE makes me; He leads me; He restores me; He comforts me; He meets all my needs.
c/f Phil 2:19 – And my GOD shall supply all your needs…
David could say, “I shall not want” because all of his needs were met. To see how the Psalm addresses all his needs, note the following.
The 7 Fold Description
In general – let us note the 7-fold description of what GOD does for us – given here without comment.
- V2a He satisfies my hunger
- V2b He gives me peace
- V3a He restores the fallen
- V3b He guides me
- V4 He walks and comforts me through death
- V5a He gives me a place in His kingdom
- V6b His care is eternal
The Verb Tenses
Note all the verbs – The LORD is, He makes, He leads, He restores, YOU are, etc. All the verbs are in the present tense. These blessings are available now.
Remember the Psalm is a present comfort. Yes, Jesus died for us (Psa 22); Yes, HE will come for us (Psa 24); but here the point is, HE cares for us (Psa 23)! He cares for us NOW. When we are hurting. When we are struggling. Where is GOD when I am hurting? The LORD is my shepherd;
Recall the fact that prior to the central thought, For You are with me, we have the 3rd Person references. HE does this and HE does that. In verses 2 and 3 there are 4 of these references.
V2 He makes me to lie down in green pastures.
- He makes me…
Makes (KJV, maketh) is in the present tense – continuous.
I am reminded of the small child who needs a rest. The last thing they want to do is lie down. But the parent knows what they need. The child doesn’t know what he needs. GOD knows.
When sheep lie down, it implies they are fed and secure. Their needs have been met.
- He leads me…
Sheep are by nature very fearful animals. They are especially fearful of running water. They will not lie down if they are scared. Thus we see the picture of comfort that would have been evident to the shepherd.
Still waters (literally waters of rest) describe peace and tranquility. Phil 4:7 – and the peace of GOD which passes all understanding shall guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.
And thus we have – HE satisfies my hunger and gives me peace.
V3
In verse 3 we read, “He restores my soul.”
- He restores me…
All of the imagery in the 1st part of the Psalm is that of a shepherd caring for the sheep. Note examples in verses 2, 3.
Sheep are prone to stray. As they eat, they wander, head down, not observant of where they are going. This idea is what we see in the parable of the lost sheep in Luke 15.
The Hebrew word for restore is a word that means turn back or return. So just as the sheep wander and the shepherd brings them back, so too does GOD restore us.
KJV says, restoreth – present tense.
This restoration process is continuous, on-going, because our sin is continuous. So says Romans 3:23. And thus 1 John 1:7 notes the cleansing process is continuous. Aren’t we thankful for that?
- He guides me. Many translations use the word leads again here. The NAS and others uses guides. It is in fact 2 separate Hebrew words so I will use the word guide.
How does HE guide me? Through His word. That is the only way I know about the paths of righteousness.
Psalm 119:105 – Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.
V4
Note the valley. Life is filled with these valleys of fear and anxiety.
The valley noted here is even to the point of…the shadow of death. Doesn’t this perfectly describe our series of lessons related to Fear and Anxiety?
In this sheep/shepherd context I am reminded of a cartoon from my childhood. Remember the old cartoon of the wolf and the sheep dog guarding the sheep? “Morning Ralph, Morning Sam.”
The sheep were especially vulnerable without the watching eye of the sheep dog.
In v4 that is the scenario described by “walk through the valley”. For the shepherd and the sheep, the daily journey sometimes carried the sheep through wooded areas where the lions lurked. But they were safe with the shepherd.
Here we find our 4th Lesson
It is in these valleys in which we walk – the dark times of our lives – when we are especially vulnerable and exposed to Satan. It is then we must cling to the LORD.
It is especially important when we are in the valley to remember James 4:8, Draw near to GOD and He will draw near to you.
It is then we find the center of the Psalm – For You are with me
Even in the valley of the shadow of death, I will not fear. Why?
For You are with me.
I am under the watchful care of the Shepherd!
A transition…
There appears to be 2 metaphors in the Psalm. The 1st metaphor is that of a shepherd, the 2nd that of a host to a banquet or feast. The obvious parallel is GOD is the Shepherd and GOD is the Host.
In this 2nd case, just think about the many references to banquets and feasts found in Scripture. For example, consider the parable of the Great Supper in Luke 14, the marriage feast of the Bridegroom in Matt 22, or even the observance of the Communion, the LORD’S Supper.
There is a change that happens here not to be overlooked. It is very important. The Psalmist changes from 3rd Person to 2nd Person. Instead of talking about GOD, he now speaks to GOD. This change occurs with the central statement, You are…
In this section of the Psalm, we find 4 additional verbs given with the 2nd Person.
- You are with me
- You comfort
- You prepare
- You anoint
Let us briefly observe.
Your rod and Your staff…
These 2 shepherd’s instruments are noted.
David expresses they were both a comfort to him. How so?
There is some debate here but the important thing is what follows. They comfort me.
Some have suggested the rod was shorter and used for protection. The staff was the longer of the two. It was used for guidance.
The staff was used to lean and rest upon. With a crooked end, it was used to pull a sheep out of a dangerous situation. It was used to guide the sheep along a narrow path. I can identify with this last one. While walking with my young grandson along a creek bank where the path narrows I use my staff as a handrail for him.
In verses 2 and 3, we noted He leads and guides me. In this analogy, He doesn’t follow me. He leads me and guides me. The staff helps to paint that picture.
1 Peter 2:21 – leaving us an example that you should follow His steps.
The rod was shorter.
Matthew Henry’s commentary makes an interesting point in describing the rod and the staff as, “The rod of correction and the staff of support.”
I have used this analogy in lessons on parenting representing the two pillars of love and control. GOD had a reason to list both the “rod and staff” here. If we applied that to parenting, one can see the importance of both. The rod of correction is sometimes necessary. Limitations are critical in child rearing. The wise parent understands the necessity of limits and discipline in child rearing. The staff represents support, love, and guidance.
The rod and staff would have meant more to the shepherding culture of David’s time but we are assured from the Scripture they both were a comfort to the Psalmist. And that is what the Psalm is to us in our times of need. We can be sure the Shepherd is caring for us!
HE restores us, HE leads us through His word. The word of GOD, whether in the form of a rod or staff, is our comfort. Support or discipline, it is our comfort.
V5
You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies.
I want you to envision your home at Thanksgiving when you sit down to your meal and you are surrounded by family and friends. Similarly this table is prepared for the feast, but in this case it is set before our enemies.
We normally think about eating in the presence of friends. Being set before my enemies, makes an interesting picture. It is the picture of victory or triumph. My enemies, those who would like to see me fail, instead see GOD as the Host, honoring me. The Christian sits down and eats as if everything were in perfect peace. In the midst of the most trying circumstances, in the presence of our struggles, surrounded by the enemy, we have the peace of Jehovah.
Philippians 4:7 – the peace of GOD which passes all understanding…
It should not be overlooked that this picture follows the threat of death. The enemies are there. They are at the door – the world, the flesh, Satan, sin, my circumstances, the fear of death. The enemies are there.
Don’t focus on the enemies. Focus on the Host. Focus on the feast. Focus on the Savior.
John 14:2 – I go to prepare a place for you.
Rev 17:14 – These will make war with the Lamb, and the Lamb will overcome them…
These will make war. Who are the “these”? The enemies!
The last enemy to be overcome is death. (1 Cor 15:26)
Now here is Lesson #5.
Just as we observed in Psalm 22, GOD will not deliver us FROM our circumstances; HE will deliver us THROUGH our circumstances.
GOD has not promised to remove the enemies. HE has promised to conquer them. HE promises to provide for us IN THE PRESENCE OF OUR ENEMIES.
As we deal with fears and anxieties, it is understandable to pray for them to be removed. But we should be prepared for the feast to be in the presence of my enemies. GOD will provide.
Anointing my head with oil.
I’ve heard various interpretations of this analogy. One explanation is the shepherd anoints the sheep’s head with oil to keep the flies away. The problem with this explanation in the opinion of this writer, is that it would fit back in the earlier part of the Psalm where GOD is depicted as a shepherd.
The 2nd explanation fits better into this section. There was a practice of anointing the head of guests with an oil that was infused with perfume. We see this custom being practiced in Matthew 26: 6, 7. The woman had an alabaster flask of very costly fragrant oil that she poured on His head as He sat at the table.
Whatever the practice, it was a comforting thought.
My cups runs over.
At the risk of redundancy, note the verb is present tense.
The language would have been especially meaningful to those in David’s time. It was customary for the host to welcome their guests or strangers by filling their cup. When their welcome wore off, they filled the cup half full. The imagery here is that our blessings from GOD are represented by the cup that is full and running over.
A cup running over…
With the Lord the cup is always running over. From Luke 15 – The calf is always the fatted calf; the robe is always the best robe; the joy is unspeakable. From Philippians 4:7 – it is the peace that passes all understanding. There is no short changing God’s goodness.
As we consider our giving to GOD, let us remember this. Malachi describes it like this.
…I will open the windows of heaven and pour out for you such blessing that there will not be room to receive it. Mal 3:10
Luke 6:38 – Give and it will be given to you: good measure, pressed down, shaken together and running over will be put into your bosom.
Eph 3:20 – Now to Him who is able to do exceedingly abundantly above all that we ask or think according to the power that works in us.
We serve a GOD that will fill our cups to overflowing IF we will but let Him!
The abundant idea actually continues in verse 6.
V6
Goodness and mercy doesn’t just “Follow” us.
In verse 6, we read, “Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life.”
Again, we miss something in the translation here. The translation of “follow” is far too weak.
The Hebrew wordmeans to chase, to pursue, or to run after. The goodness and mercy of GOD does not just follow us. Rather, these blessings from GOD chase us if indeed the LORD is my Shepherd. The idea, similar to the cup running over, is an over abundant blessing.
There is much comfort in the Psalm for those who are grieving, struggling with the valleys of life, and dealing with fear and anxiety.
When those times come in our lives, let us remember the Lessons from Psalm 23.
1. From the very 1st line we note, The LORD is my Shepherd (and be sure HE is!) Note the personal nature of the Psalm by observing all the personal pronouns. All of the promises of GOD are available to us contingent on His being our Shepherd.
2. Note the present tense verbs in the Psalm. These blessings are for us now.
3. Note the personal relationship with GOD. It is not enough to know about GOD, we must KNOW GOD. This is seen with the division at the center of the Psalm. In the early verses we find David talking ABOUT GOD. Following v4 note the change and the use of the 2nd Person as David talks TO GOD.
4. We are especially vulnerable to Satan’s devices when we walk through the valleys. It is then we must remember why we do not fear, For You are with me.
5. GOD has not promised to remove the enemies. HE has promised to conquer them. HE promises to provide for us IN THE PRESENCE OF OUR ENEMIES. In so doing, we must place all our faith in Him. Proverbs 3: 5, 6
Chapter 5
Psalm 24 – The Chief Shepherd Will Come for Me
We will conclude our series with a look at Psalm 24. Along with the previous 2 Psalms, they all fit together as a Trilogy and make for a wonderful study in our series of Lessons to help us deal with Fear and Anxiety.
As with Psalms 22 and 23, we link Psalm 24 with a New Testament verse.
and when the Chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the crown of glory
1 Peter 5:4.
He is the Chief Shepherd who will come for the sheep to take them to glory.
You may want to remember the study with a word association.
Psalm 22 – we see the cross
Psalm 23 – we see the comfort
Psalm 24 – we see the crown
22 – He dies
23 – He lives
24 – He rules
22 – The Messiah
23 – The Shepherd
24 – The King
Psalm 24 is subtitled – The King of Glory and His Kingdom
John 18:37 – Pilate therefore said to Him, “Are You a king then?”
Jesus answered, “You say rightly that I am a king. For this cause I was born, and for this cause I have come into the world…”
The Outline of the Psalm
Psalm 24 is another short Psalm of only 10 verses. The Psalm naturally divides itself into 2 parts with the word selah.
Selah. Recall the word selah is thought to have a musical connection, representing a pause perhaps. No surprise since the Psalms are actually songs. The only place it is found outside the Psalms is in the 3rd chapter of Habakkuk. At any rate it probably has no grammatical meaning but that doesn’t mean there is no meaning at all. Discuss the power of a pause, even in a speech. The pause causes us to think about what was just said for a moment. It drives home the point.
We’ll make an additional division by looking at vv 1-2 separately and note 3 divisions.
- The LORD’S ownership of the world – vv 1-2
- The requirements for standing before the Holy GOD – vv 3-6
- The coming of the LORD – vv 7-10
We might recall in Psalm 22 He died for me (past tense)
Psalm 23, He lives for me (present tense)
Psalm 24, He is coming for me (future tense)
1st – Ownership (Psalm 24:1, 2)
In the subtitle of the Psalm and 5 times in the last section, He is called “The King of Glory”
Let us 1st observe, why is HE worthy of this glory? Because of His ownership.
The earth is the LORD’s
There it is. He created it. It is His.
We read this sentiment in Revelation 4:11 as those in heaven worshipped GOD said,
You are worthy, O Lord, to receive glory and honor and power; For You created all things and by Your will they exist and were created.
The word “For” means the reason by which something is. This is the reason HE is worthy to receive glory and honor.
This is another of the Psalms that we may recognize with the 1st verse.
Paul quoted this twice – 1 Cor 10:26 and v28 – For the earth is the LORD’s and all its fullness.
And in that context in v31, he says, “…whatever you do, do all to the glory of GOD.”
Ownership.
Once we get a handle on this, our giving will not be a problem. It is not an idea of 10% belongs to GOD and 90% to me. No, no. It ALL belongs to Him.
I Cor 4:2 – Moreover it is required in stewards that one be found faithful.
On occasion we have had the privilege of leading seminars on “What does the Bible say about money?” And this verse is how we introduce the lessons. What is a steward? One who manages something that belongs to Someone else.
Recall the parable of the talents in Matthew 25. The master – traveling to a far country, who called his own servants and delivered his goods to them.
When we realize it all belongs to GOD, when we realize we can take nothing with us when we go, it will impact the way we look at things. And it will impact our living and it will impact our giving.
V2 – For He has founded it upon the seas, and established it upon the waters.
For this historical record, look back to Genesis 1:9 for an observation.
On the 3rd day of creation – Let the waters under the heavens be gathered together unto one place and let the dry land appear.
Under the heavens – Plural; there are 3 heavens discussed in Scripture. In 2 Cor 12:2, Paul referred to being caught up to the third heaven. If there is a 3rd there must be a 1st and 2nd.
- Air – Gen 6:7 – birds of the air (almost 400 times translated heaven)
- Outer space – Deut 10:14 – the abode of the stars
- The abode of GOD – Hebrews 8:1
Gathered unto one place – Singular; note the common sea bed that connects all the oceans.
Let the dry land appear – And then finally note there is an imagery in play here, that of the resurrection. When GOD gathered the waters together, submerged land appeared out of the water. It was a type of resurrection.
- Requirements for standing before Holy GOD (Psalms 24:3-6)
The heart of the Psalm
Read verses 3-6 first.
V3 asks the question – V4 provides the answer. Who can stand in the presence of Holy GOD?
Consider the 4-fold description in v4 of the one who may stand.
- Clean hands – my actions
- Pure heart – my attitude
Actions and attitude => Truth and spirit, John 4:24
- Not lifted up his soul to an idol, to what is false
- Lack of deceit –
So how do you measure up as you look at those 4 requirements? We all fall short! If these are the only ones to stand before the LORD, I will be left out. We all will be. Yet, if I am a child of GOD, I am going to be there because of my Savior. He will stand beside me in that great judgment. I will have clean hands and a pure heart ONLY because of Him.
Take comfort in the following Scriptures.
1 John 2:1 …if anyone sins, we have an Advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ…
Rom 8:34 …It is Christ who ˡdied, and furthermore is also ²risen, who is even ³at the right hand of GOD, who also ⁴makes intercession for us.
1 Tim 2:5 – For there is one GOD and one Mediator between GOD and men, the Man Christ Jesus.
Heb 9:24 – of Christ we read that HE is now in…heaven itself, now to appear in the presence of GOD for us.
When I stand before GOD in the judgment, I don’t want Him to look at me, at the things I have done and the things I have left undone. No, no, a thousand times no. I want my Advocate, my Intercessor, my Mediator…my LORD to represent me. He is my only chance.
- Coming of the LORD to His Holy Place (Psalms 24:7-10)
2 times in the passage, the question is asked, “Who is this King of glory?”
Each time, it is answered, “The LORD”
Most agree this is a Messianic prophecy of the LORD being welcomed back into heaven when His time on earth was complete. Just think about His mission being completed. He came to earth to die in my place. I can stand before GOD in judgement with clean hands because of His death. On the cross, He breathed His last with these words, “It is finished.”
There is a sense in which He was lifted up on the cross, John 12:32. When He was buried, on the 3rd day He was lifted up from the grave, 1 Corinthians 15:4. And the 1st chapter of Acts gives us the account of His being lifted up or ascending back to heaven. This is what is being described here in vv 7-10.
Twice we have the phrase, “Lift up you everlasting doors!” It reminds me of being home and hearing the basement garage doors open. I know that my Teresa is home. It would have special meaning if she had been gone for an extended period of time. This is the scene in heaven being described when the LORD returned home!
5 times He is described as the King of glory. Indeed, He is the King of glory. Amen!!!
Again, the word selah – certainly these matters should give us pause and cause us to think.
In our study of these 3 Psalms, we have noted Lessons that help us deal with Fear and Anxiety. From Psalm 24, consider these thoughts on which to dwell when we struggle.
Psalm 24
- It all belongs to Him, including those who dwell therein. And that includes me. If I fully believe this, it will make a difference in living.
- Jesus has conquered death, He has ascended back to heaven and He has been welcomed home. He has prepared a place for me (John 14:1ff). I want to be welcomed there one day.
- He is coming for His own one day. In 1 Peter 5:4 we read, “and when the Chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the crown of glory.” I want to be in that group.
- I will be able to stand before GOD that day in Judgment only because I have my Advocate, my Intercessor, my Mediator…my LORD representing me. I can be welcomed there one day, I can be part of that group, because of HIM.
Chapter 6
Conclusion
Let’s review how the 3 Psalms all fit together.
When the 24 elders fell down to worship GOD in Revelation 11:17, they began by saying, “We give You thanks, O Lord GOD Almighty, the One who is and who was and who is to come…”
The eternal GOD is everlasting and was addressed as such in the past tense, the present tense, and the future tense. Each of the Psalms in our study has been identified with these tenses.
The tone of much of Psalm 22 is past tense, Psalm 23 is present tense, and Psalm 24 is future tense.
Furthermore, the subject matter of these 3 Psalms ties them to 3 Scriptures found in the New Testament. We used each Scripture to give a subtitle for each Psalm.
Psalm 22 – The Good Shepherd; Psalm 23 – The Great Shepherd; Psalm 24 – The Chief Shepherd
Psalm 22 – He is the Good Shepherd who died for the sheep – see John 10:1-18, v11
Psalm 23 – He is the Great Shepherd who lives for the sheep and cares for them – Heb 13:20-21
Psalm 24 – He is the Chief Shepherd who will come for the sheep to take them to glory – 1 Pet 5:4
Psalms 22 – 24 each could be remembered for one word that begins with the letter c. What were those words?
Psalm 22 – cross; Psalm 23 – comfort; Psalm 24 – crown
From each of the 3 Psalms, we noted lessons that help us deal with fears and anxieties. Let us review the Lessons from our study of Psalms 22 -24 that will help us in times of struggle. Any one of these lessons will be a source of comfort when we are in the valley. The reader is encouraged to take each of these 14 lessons and meditate on them individually. One lesson per day for 2 weeks will encourage and strengthen our faith.
Psalm 22
- The Psalm is divided into 2 parts: the suffering and the glory. The lesson is one of Perspective. When we are suffering, don’t forget the glory. Romans 8:18
- The 2 views presented in the first part teaches us to keep a balance in life when suffering. We need to look Inward as well as Upward. Balance is the key.
- When we face the valleys of life we are reminded that GOD may not delivered us from the suffering; we are promised to be delivered through it. Remember the LORD in the Garden and Paul’s thorn in the flesh.
- See the big picture and ask, “GOD what will you have me learn from this suffering?”
- Remember Psalm 22:24 – GOD is always there.
Psalm 23
1. From the very 1st line of Psalm 23 we note, The LORD is my Shepherd (and be sure HE is!) Note the personal nature of the Psalm by observing all the personal pronouns. All of the promises of GOD are available to us contingent on His being our Shepherd.
2. Note the present tense verbs in the Psalm. The blessings described in Psalm 23 are not some future promise. They are for us now.
3. Note the personal relationship with GOD. It is not enough to know about GOD, we must KNOW GOD. This is seen with the division at the center of the Psalm. In the early verses we find David talking ABOUT GOD. Following v4 note the change and the use of the 2nd Person as David talks TO GOD.
4. In verse 4, we note we are especially vulnerable to Satan’s devices when we walk through the valleys. It is then we must remember why we do not fear, For You are with me.
5. GOD has not promised to remove the enemies. HE has promised to conquer them. HE promises to provide for us IN THE PRESENCE OF OUR ENEMIES. In so doing, we must place all our faith in Him. Proverbs 3: 5, 6
Psalm 24
1. It all belongs to Him, including those who dwell therein. And that includes me. If I fully believe this, it will make a difference in living.
2. Jesus has conquered death, He has ascended back to heaven and He has been welcomed home. He has prepared a place for me (John 14:1ff). I want to be welcomed there one day.
3. He is coming for His own one day. In 1 Peter 5:4 we read, “and when the Chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the crown of glory.” I want to be in that group.
4. I will be able to stand before GOD that day in Judgment only because I have my Advocate, my Intercessor, my Mediator…my LORD representing me. I can be welcomed there one day, I can be part of that group, because of HIM.
Job 14:1 tells us that life is full of struggles. We each will have hardships come our way. We will not dwell on the mountain tops everyday but will have our times in the valleys as well. There will be periods of time wherein we deal with fear and anxiety.
As Christians, GOD would not have us stay in the valleys too long. HE has given us help in the pages of Scripture. It is my hope a study of Psalms 22 – 24 will provide comfort in life when we struggle.