Confidence

by Billy Williams
Psalm 23 (KJV)
1The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want.

2He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters.

3He restoreth my soul: he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name's sake.

4Yea, 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.

5Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies: thou anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over.

6Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the LORD for ever.



I remember having to memorize this chapter in Psalms in 7th grade English. What is more amazing than me actually memorizing something is that I attended a public school. This was in the days before the life-giving words of God were considered offensive. King David had such a wonderful grasp on who God is and even though David had done things that would most surely get most of us asked to leave the local church, he knew the unfailing love and care God had for him despite his failings and sinful nature.

A quick look at the Psalm and we know clearly how David knew God -- as Guide, Comfort and Rest, Restorer, Righteous Lord, Protector and Provider. He knew that God lifted him to a place of wealth in front of his enemies, covered his sin, lavished blessings on him, was merciful, good and would never disown him. I feel in my own walk that to claim these things from God for myself is vanity. I need to remember what David knew in his very soul, that we are all sinner-saints.

God, help me to grasp these things as mine. Give me a confidence that You love and care for me in the exact same way You did King David. Be my Shepherd.