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Psalms 23:2
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Summary
Commentary
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
green pastures--or, "pastures of tender grass," are mentioned, not in respect to food, but as places of cool and refreshing rest. the still waters--are, literally, "waters of "stillness," whose quiet flow invites to repose. They are contrasted with boisterous streams on the one hand, and stagnant, offensive pools on the other.
John Gill Bible Commentary
He maketh me to lie down in green pastures,.... Or "pastures of tender grass" (t); this is one part of the shepherd's work, and which is performed by Christ, Eze 34:14; by these "green pastures" may be meant the covenant of grace, its blessings and promises, where there is delicious feeding; likewise the fulness of grace in Christ, from whence grace for grace is received; also the flesh and blood, righteousness and sacrifice, of Christ, which faith is led unto and lives upon, and is refreshed and invigorated by; to which may be added the doctrines of the Gospel, with which Christ's under-shepherds feed his lambs and sheep, there being in them milk for babes and meat for strong men; and likewise the ordinances of the Gospel, the goodness and fatness of the Lord's house, the feast of fat things, and breasts of consolation: here Christ's sheep are made to "lie down", denoting their satiety and fulness; they having in these green pastures what is satisfying and replenishing; as also their rest and safety, these being sure dwellings and quiet resting places, even in the noon of temptation and persecution; see Sol 1:7; he leadeth me beside the still waters, or "waters of rest and quietness" (u); not to rapid torrents, which by reason of the noise they make, and the swiftness of their motion, the sheep are frightened, and not able to drink of them; but to still waters, pure and clear, and motionless, or that go softly, like the waters of Shiloah, Isa 8:6; and the "leading" to them is in a gentle way, easily, as they are able to bear it; so Jacob led his flock, Gen 33:14; and Christ leads his, Isa 40:11; by these "still waters" may be designed the everlasting love of God, which is like a river, the streams whereof make glad the hearts of his people; these are the waters of the sanctuary, which rise to the ankles, knees, and loins, and are as a broad river to swim in; the pure river of water of life Christ leads his sheep to, and gives them to drink freely of: also communion with God, which the saints pant after, as the hart pants after the water brooks, and Christ gives access unto; moreover he himself is the fountain of gardens, and well of living waters, and streams from Lebanon; and the graces of his Spirit are also as rivers of living water, all which he makes his people partakers of; to which may be added, that the Scriptures, and the truths of the Gospel, are like still, quiet, and refreshing waters to them, and are the waters to which those that are athirst are invited to come, Isa 55:1; and in the immortal state Christ will still be a shepherd, and will feed his people, and lead them to fountains of living water, where they shall solace themselves for ever, and shall know no more sorrow and sighing, Rev 7:17. (t) "tenerae herbae", Piscator, Amama, Gejerus, Michaelis; "in folds of budding grass", Ainsworth. (u) "aquas requietum", Pagninus, Montanus; "quietum", Vatablus, Michaelis; "vel quietis", Gejerus; so Ainsworth; Apollinar.
Psalms 23:2
The LORD Is My Shepherd
1The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want. 2He makes me lie down in green pastures; He leads me beside quiet waters. 3He restores my soul; He guides me in the paths of righteousness for the sake of His name.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
Martha and Mary
By C.H. Spurgeon2.5K55:32MarthaPSA 23:2ISA 61:3MAT 6:33LUK 10:20LUK 10:38JHN 15:5In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of having a strong inner life and a deep connection with God. He uses the example of Mary and Martha to illustrate this point. Mary is praised for her devotion to learning and growing spiritually, while Martha is criticized for valuing mere activity over communion with God. The preacher warns against prioritizing work over prayer and urges believers to maintain a balance between being active and contemplative. He also highlights the significance of holding onto and defending the truths of the faith, even if they are considered unimportant by society.
Bristol Conference 1964 (Apostasy) - Part 5
By William MacDonald2.5K59:06ApostasyPSA 23:2JHN 10:9ROM 8:12PE 2:9JUD 1:8REV 18:4The video begins with the speaker mentioning a scripture verse about entering through the door to be saved. He then talks about the different doors in life, such as opportunities and service to others, but fails to mention Jesus Christ. The speaker then discusses four characteristics of false teachers, including defiance of authority, carousing, sexual sin, and mercenary motives in Christian work. The video concludes with a mention of punishment reserved for these false teachers and a recommendation for a booklet called "Think of Your Future" to guide young people in avoiding a wasted life.
Have You Ever Felt That God Is Doing Nothing in Your Life?
By Carter Conlon2.4K45:06FailureTrusting in God's TimingGod's Quiet Work1KI 6:71KI 18:26PSA 23:2PSA 74:4ISA 30:15MAT 11:28JHN 14:11CO 2:92CO 3:18HEB 11:6Carter Conlon addresses the feeling of spiritual stagnation, emphasizing that even when it seems God is silent, He is actively working within us. He draws from Isaiah 30, highlighting that true strength comes from returning to God in quietness and confidence, rather than seeking worldly solutions. Conlon warns against the temptation to rely on external noise and quick fixes, urging believers to trust in God's quiet work in their lives. He illustrates this with the story of Elijah on Mount Carmel, contrasting the noise of false prophets with the quiet power of God. Ultimately, he reassures that God is continually building us into His temple, even when we cannot see or hear it.
The Beginning, Increase and End of the Divine Life
By C.H. Spurgeon1.9K44:30PSA 23:2PSA 119:105PRO 27:17MAT 7:7LUK 22:19HEB 10:252PE 1:4In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the principle that although the beginnings of good things may be small, they will greatly increase over time. The preacher aims to provide practical applications of this principle. Firstly, to reassure those who are new in their faith, secondly, to strengthen their faith, and thirdly, to motivate them to be diligent in their spiritual journey. The preacher uses various metaphors, such as stars emerging in the night sky and a small stream growing into a mighty river, to illustrate the progression of good things. The sermon encourages believers to have confidence in their spiritual growth and to not be discouraged by comparing themselves to others.
Die Isaac - Live to God
By Major Ian Thomas1.3K39:22Self-LifePSA 23:2PSA 62:1PSA 116:7ISA 32:17MAT 6:33MAT 11:28In this sermon, the speaker expresses gratitude for the attendees and the Lord Jesus for the fruitful week they have had. The sermon begins with a recapitulation of the principles and lessons that God has been teaching them. The speaker then moves on to a timely word of warning, emphasizing the importance of staying close to God and relying on His adequacy in every situation. The sermon concludes with a reference to the story of Abraham and Isaac, highlighting the importance of obeying God's instructions and trusting in His provision.
Psalm 23:2-3
By Carl Armerding1.2K52:57RestorationPSA 23:2MAT 6:33MAT 11:28MRK 6:31JHN 10:11HEB 11:32JAS 5:13In this sermon, the speaker reflects on the challenges and weariness of life, particularly in the context of raising children. They mention their own mother's experience with ten children and how they were not always well-behaved. The speaker emphasizes the importance of spiritual refreshment and protection for children in a world filled with negative influences. They draw on the imagery of peaceful waters and the Holy Spirit to highlight the soothing and transformative power of God's Word. The sermon concludes with a song that speaks of finding strength and trust in Jesus through all trials and difficulties.
(John) Gazing at the People
By Willie Mullan1.2K1:02:18The World NeedGEN 2:16PSA 23:2JHN 6:6JHN 6:8In this sermon, the preacher reflects on the story of Jesus feeding the five thousand. He emphasizes the importance of not losing sight of the crisis when trying to find a solution. The preacher highlights the expectation and example set by Jesus when he instructs the disciples to gather up the fragments after the miracle. The sermon also explores the lessons to be learned from Andrew's response and Jesus' command to sit down. The preacher intends to delve deeper into the spiritual lessons in the following verses but decides to focus on the valuable lessons in the current passage.
Contrasting Picture of Life and Death
By Ian Paisley1.1K45:17GEN 1:21PSA 23:2ISA 1:7JER 12:5MAT 6:332TI 4:3HEB 12:1In this sermon, the preacher discusses the challenges and struggles of life, comparing them to footmen in a race. He emphasizes that everyone will face disappointments, sickness, sorrow, and tragedy along their journey. However, the preacher also highlights the importance of relying on Jesus to overcome these obstacles and find peace. He concludes by reminding the audience that there will come a day when the footmen will be replaced by the cavalry charge of death, and everyone will face the final battle.
Being Led
By Charles Leiter61141:30PSA 23:2PSA 32:8ISA 53:6ISA 55:12JER 31:9ROM 8:14This sermon focuses on the theme of being led, drawing from the example of Jesus allowing Himself to be led by the Spirit, by the devil in temptation, and by wicked men. It emphasizes the importance of consciously asking and depending on God to lead us, being willing to follow His leading, and reflecting on how God has led us in the past. The sermon also highlights the contrast between believers who are led by God and unbelievers who resist being led, choosing to go their own way.
Misunderstood Love
By Jack Hyles54737:33PSA 23:2MAT 7:21MAT 28:19JHN 1:12JHN 14:6ROM 8:28ROM 12:2In this sermon, the preacher uses the analogy of a shepherd and a little lamb to illustrate the concept of God's love and discipline. He describes how a shepherd would break the leg of a little lamb to prevent it from running off and getting into danger. The preacher emphasizes the importance of love in various aspects of life, including the pulpit, the law, and the home. He also addresses the misunderstanding of God's actions, citing examples of people questioning God's love when faced with difficult circumstances. Overall, the sermon highlights the idea that love is often misunderstood but plays a crucial role in guiding and protecting individuals.
The Righteous
By Robert B. Thompson5331:18:00PSA 23:2PSA 34:16PSA 34:19MAT 6:33JHN 19:36In this sermon, the speaker reflects on the challenges of being a school teacher and dealing with disruptive students. He emphasizes the importance of being a shining light in the world and not just preaching the gospel, but living it out in our actions. The speaker also discusses the consequences of not truly serving God and how it can lead to judgment. He encourages the audience to trust in the Lord, do good, and not be envious of the apparent success of the wicked, as their prosperity is temporary.
In Calm Repose
By C.H. Spurgeon1PeaceRest in GodPSA 4:8PSA 23:2HOS 2:18MAT 11:28C.H. Spurgeon emphasizes the profound peace that God grants to His saints, as illustrated in Hosea 2:18, where believers are assured of safety and rest amidst earthly troubles and spiritual enemies. He highlights that true peace comes from God, who breaks the instruments of disquiet, allowing His people to lie down in calm repose. This divine rest is not just about physical relaxation but a deep spiritual assurance that believers can find safety in God's presence. Spurgeon encourages the faithful to trust in God's promise of peace, which surpasses all worries and fears, leading to a restful state in the love of Christ.
Music and the Rest
By Charles E. Cowman0PSA 23:2PSA 27:14PSA 46:10ISA 30:15ROM 8:28Charles E. Cowman preaches about the significance of being called aside by God into a desert place apart, where we experience forced leisure, disappointments, and pauses in the melody of our lives. He emphasizes that these 'rests' are not to be overlooked but are moments where God is teaching us valuable lessons and deepening our relationship with Him. By focusing on God during these times, we can learn to trust His timing and guidance, allowing Him to lead us through the slow and sometimes painful process of making music out of our lives.
Fellowship With Christ in the Yoke
By John Follette0PSA 23:2MAT 11:28JHN 10:101CO 1:9PHP 2:5HEB 4:9John Wright Follette preaches about the deep work of God's plow in our hearts, breaking up the fallow ground and turning self-hood into a field set free. He emphasizes the importance of responding to God's call to a life of fellowship and intimate communion with Jesus Christ, highlighting the phases of growth and the need for a common basis in the image of God. Follette discusses the invitation to come to Jesus, who offers rest and abundant life, leading to a fellowship of service and learning from Him through taking His yoke and finding rest for our souls.
Eighth Day: He Maketh Me to Lie Down in Green Pastures.
By J. Wilbur Chapman0PSA 5:3PSA 23:2PSA 119:105ISA 40:11MAT 4:4JHN 10:27J. Wilbur Chapman preaches about the Christian life having two elements: the contemplative and the active, both richly provided for by God. He emphasizes the importance of finding refreshment and satisfaction in God's provision, likening it to green pastures in a parched land, symbolizing the Scriptures of truth. Chapman highlights the necessity of feeding on the word of God for nourishment, satisfaction, and peace, contrasting it with the world's distractions and emphasizing the need to hear God's voice for true restfulness. He suggests starting the day in quietness, alone with God, to secure a foundation of Bible-study and prayer for a spiritually fulfilling day.
The Power of Stillness - Psa. 46:10
By Bernard Fell0PSA 23:2PSA 37:7PSA 46:10MAT 11:28PHP 4:6Bernard Fell preaches about the importance of finding inner peace and rest in God amidst the chaos and busyness of the world. He emphasizes the need to slow down, seek God's presence, and allow Him to calm our minds, restore our souls, and cheer our hearts. By being still and knowing the Lord, we can experience His grace, delight in His love, and find strength to navigate through the challenges of life.
Epistle 203
By George Fox0GEN 12:2PSA 23:2PSA 145:13ISA 40:31LUK 1:33JHN 10:201CO 4:8EPH 3:21HEB 7:16REV 19:16George Fox preaches about reigning as kings in the Father's hand, following the King of kings who gives abundant life, and experiencing the endless kingdom and dominion with joy and comfort. He encourages dwelling in the light, minding the seed of God, and being diligent in serving the Lord to be a blessing and sweet savour unto Him. Fox emphasizes feeling and knowing the power of an endless life, a kingdom with no end, and a dominion over all dominions, leading to possessing everlasting life and meeting together to wait upon the Lord.
From Marah to Elim
By J. Wilbur Chapman0PSA 23:2PSA 84:6PSA 92:12ISA 12:3ISA 58:11JHN 4:142CO 9:8EPH 2:6COL 3:1REV 22:1J. Wilbur Chapman preaches about the delightful change Israel experienced when they moved from Marah to Elim, symbolizing the transition from bondage to freedom, darkness to light, and unrest to rest. This journey mirrors the Christian's rightful experience of a glorious and wonderful life in Christ. Elim's twelve wells of water represent refreshment and rest for every month of the year, while the seventy palm trees signify provision and sustenance for every year of a believer's life. Chapman emphasizes the surpassing experience of going beyond the cross of Christ, passing through His death, and standing on Resurrection ground, where abundant blessings await those who seek heavenly things.
Sixteenth Day: "In the Paths of righteousness."
By J. Wilbur Chapman0PSA 23:2PSA 23:4JHN 10:31CO 10:13J. Wilbur Chapman preaches about the comforting guidance of the Good Shepherd, illustrating how the Shepherd leads His sheep through various terrains and challenges, always towards the ultimate destination of home. The metaphor of being led in sheep-tracks or wagon ruts emphasizes the diverse paths God may lead us on, but assures that following His guidance will always lead us to safety and comfort in His fold.
The Disciple's Rest
By John Henry Jowett0PSA 23:2PSA 37:7PSA 46:10PSA 62:1ISA 26:3MAT 11:282CO 12:9PHP 4:7HEB 4:9John Henry Jowett preaches on the invitation of Jesus to come to Him for rest, emphasizing that this rest is a gift of grace, not earned through toil or culture. He explains that while the rest is immediate, it is also a continuous discovery as we learn from Jesus. Jowett highlights the importance of the Church embracing a restful disposition in the midst of the world's restlessness, urging believers to find strength and assurance in the restful realization of the Lord's presence and the wealth and power of their allies in grace and circumstances.
Quiet Time With God
By Charles E. Cowman0GEN 24:63PSA 23:2PSA 46:10MAT 11:28MRK 6:31Charles E. Cowman preaches on the importance of solitude and quiet reflection in deepening our relationship with God. He emphasizes the need to step away from the busyness of life and spend time in peaceful communion with God, allowing our souls to be refreshed and rejuvenated. Cowman encourages believers to follow the example of Isaac, who went out to meditate in the fields, and find moments of rest and connection with nature to experience God's calming and healing presence. Through quiet musing and contemplation, we can open our hearts to receive God's guidance and blessings.
Tenth Day: "Beside the Still waters."
By J. Wilbur Chapman0DEU 33:27PSA 23:2LUK 8:35LUK 15:5JHN 10:28JHN 21:20J. Wilbur Chapman preaches on the daily experience of every child of God, starting with feeding on God's Word, engaging in active service, and ending with quiet contemplation of His mercy. The importance of stillness in our lives is emphasized, as we must have quiet hours to grow and be strengthened by the Spirit of God. Various positions of the child of God are highlighted, such as being in God's hand for safety, at His feet to be taught, and beside the still waters for refreshment.
Letter 96
By James Bourne0PSA 23:2PSA 34:18EZK 34:5AMO 3:121PE 5:10James Bourne reflects on the slow and steady work of God in our lives, contrasting it with our impatience and haste. He describes the refining process God takes us through, revealing our impurities and leading us to a place of desperation and realization of our sinfulness. Despite our shortcomings, God promises to search for and restore His lost sheep, feeding them with both the waters of life and affliction to humble their proud hearts.
Epistle 60
By George Fox0Spiritual GrowthDivine GuidancePSA 23:2PSA 130:7SNG 2:14ISA 40:11MAT 5:6JHN 10:11ROM 15:132CO 4:16EPH 3:16PHP 4:19George Fox emphasizes the importance of recognizing and nurturing the pure essence of God within us, which guides us towards spiritual growth and obedience to His will. He encourages believers to delight in the truth that reveals the deceit of their hearts and to trust in God's constant presence and provision, likening Him to a shepherd who protects and nourishes His flock. Fox assures that those who seek the Lord will experience joy and abundance, moving from a state of want to one of plentiful redemption and divine guidance. He concludes with a blessing for the preservation and empowerment of the faithful in God's might.
Philippians 2:5-8
By St. John Chrysostom0PSA 23:2ISA 51:11ISA 58:7MAT 5:45MAT 6:24MAT 25:34LUK 10:19LUK 14:331CO 3:13PHP 2:5John Chrysostom preaches on the humility and obedience of Christ as an example for believers, emphasizing the need to have the same mindset as Christ who humbled Himself and became obedient even unto death. He addresses various heresies of his time, refuting them with scriptural explanations and exhorting the congregation to guard against the love of money and the dangers of covetousness. Chrysostom warns against the consequences of betraying Christ for worldly gain, highlighting the importance of living a life worthy of the faith and avoiding the pitfalls of avarice and disobedience.
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
green pastures--or, "pastures of tender grass," are mentioned, not in respect to food, but as places of cool and refreshing rest. the still waters--are, literally, "waters of "stillness," whose quiet flow invites to repose. They are contrasted with boisterous streams on the one hand, and stagnant, offensive pools on the other.
John Gill Bible Commentary
He maketh me to lie down in green pastures,.... Or "pastures of tender grass" (t); this is one part of the shepherd's work, and which is performed by Christ, Eze 34:14; by these "green pastures" may be meant the covenant of grace, its blessings and promises, where there is delicious feeding; likewise the fulness of grace in Christ, from whence grace for grace is received; also the flesh and blood, righteousness and sacrifice, of Christ, which faith is led unto and lives upon, and is refreshed and invigorated by; to which may be added the doctrines of the Gospel, with which Christ's under-shepherds feed his lambs and sheep, there being in them milk for babes and meat for strong men; and likewise the ordinances of the Gospel, the goodness and fatness of the Lord's house, the feast of fat things, and breasts of consolation: here Christ's sheep are made to "lie down", denoting their satiety and fulness; they having in these green pastures what is satisfying and replenishing; as also their rest and safety, these being sure dwellings and quiet resting places, even in the noon of temptation and persecution; see Sol 1:7; he leadeth me beside the still waters, or "waters of rest and quietness" (u); not to rapid torrents, which by reason of the noise they make, and the swiftness of their motion, the sheep are frightened, and not able to drink of them; but to still waters, pure and clear, and motionless, or that go softly, like the waters of Shiloah, Isa 8:6; and the "leading" to them is in a gentle way, easily, as they are able to bear it; so Jacob led his flock, Gen 33:14; and Christ leads his, Isa 40:11; by these "still waters" may be designed the everlasting love of God, which is like a river, the streams whereof make glad the hearts of his people; these are the waters of the sanctuary, which rise to the ankles, knees, and loins, and are as a broad river to swim in; the pure river of water of life Christ leads his sheep to, and gives them to drink freely of: also communion with God, which the saints pant after, as the hart pants after the water brooks, and Christ gives access unto; moreover he himself is the fountain of gardens, and well of living waters, and streams from Lebanon; and the graces of his Spirit are also as rivers of living water, all which he makes his people partakers of; to which may be added, that the Scriptures, and the truths of the Gospel, are like still, quiet, and refreshing waters to them, and are the waters to which those that are athirst are invited to come, Isa 55:1; and in the immortal state Christ will still be a shepherd, and will feed his people, and lead them to fountains of living water, where they shall solace themselves for ever, and shall know no more sorrow and sighing, Rev 7:17. (t) "tenerae herbae", Piscator, Amama, Gejerus, Michaelis; "in folds of budding grass", Ainsworth. (u) "aquas requietum", Pagninus, Montanus; "quietum", Vatablus, Michaelis; "vel quietis", Gejerus; so Ainsworth; Apollinar.