Tell Me . . . Where Thou Feedest
The believer's soul hungers and thirsts for the refreshment of Christ's presence, and should seek to remain in His presence as the source of satisfaction and strength.
C.H. Spurgeon emphasizes the believer's deep longing for communion with Christ, expressing a desire to find Him wherever He feeds His flock. He reflects on the necessity of seeking Jesus in prayer, Scripture, and through His ordinances, recognizing that true rest and nourishment come only from Him. Spurgeon reassures that despite feelings of unworthiness and weakness, believers are invited to draw near to Christ, who provides strength and safety. He encourages the faithful to seek the presence of the Shepherd, as it is there that their souls find refreshment and peace. Ultimately, the sermon highlights the importance of remaining close to Jesus, especially in times of distress.
Text
These words express the desire of the believer after Christ, and his longing for present communion with Him. Where doest Thou feed Thy flock? In Thy house? I will go, if I may find Thee there. In private prayer? Then I will pray without ceasing. In the Word? Then I will read it diligently. In Thine ordinances? Then I will walk in them with all my heart. Tell me where Thou feedest, for wherever Thou standest as the Shepherd, there will I lie down as a sheep; for none but Thyself can supply my need.
I cannot be satisfied to be apart from Thee. My soul hungers and thirsts for the refreshment of Thy presence. "Where dost Thou make Thy flock to rest at noon?" for whether at dawn or at noon, my only rest must be where Thou art and Thy beloved flock. My soul's rest must be a grace-given rest, and can only be found in Thee. Where is the shadow of that rock? Why should I not repose beneath it? "Why should I be as one that turneth aside by the flocks of thy companions?" Thou hast companions--why should I not be one?
Satan tells me I am unworthy; but I always was unworthy, and yet Thou hast long loved me; and therefore my unworthiness cannot be a bar to my having fellowship with Thee now. It is true I am weak in faith, and prone to fall, but my very feebleness is the reason why I should always be where Thou feedest Thy flock, that I may be strengthened, and preserved in safety beside the still waters. Why should I turn aside? There is no reason why I should, but there are a thousand reasons why I should not, for Jesus beckons me to come.
If He withdrew Himself a little, it is but to make me prize His presence more. Now that I am grieved and distressed at being away from Him, He will lead me yet again to that sheltered nook where the lambs of His fold are sheltered from the burning sun.
Sermon Outline
- I. The Desire for Present Communion with Christ
- A. The believer's longing for Christ's presence
- B. The believer's recognition of Christ as the only source of satisfaction
- II. The Shepherd's Care for His Flock
- A. Christ's presence as the believer's rest
- B. The believer's need for a grace-given rest
- III. The Believer's Right to Fellowship with Christ
- A. Christ's companionship as a reason for the believer's presence
- B. The believer's unworthiness as no bar to fellowship with Christ
- IV. The Believer's Weakness and Christ's Strength
- A. The believer's weakness as a reason for seeking Christ's presence
- B. Christ's presence as the believer's strength and preservation
Key Quotes
“Tell me where Thou feedest, for wherever Thou standest as the Shepherd, there will I lie down as a sheep;” — C.H. Spurgeon
“My soul hungers and thirsts for the refreshment of Thy presence.” — C.H. Spurgeon
“Why should I turn aside? There is no reason why I should, but there are a thousand reasons why I should not, for Jesus beckons me to come.” — C.H. Spurgeon
Application Points
- Recognize your need for present communion with Christ and seek to remain in His presence.
- Trust in Christ's love and acceptance, and do not let your unworthiness be a barrier to fellowship with Him.
- Seek strength and preservation in Christ's presence, and do not turn aside from His care.