Sermon Series:  David: Shepherd, Poet, King

Sermon Title:  Psalm 23

Text:  Psalm 23

Focus:  Psalm 23 is a poem that transcends culture. This notable Psalm was one of many David wrote. Today, we will review his Psalms and process what the Psalms mean to us.

“Genuine poetry can communicate before it is understood.” – TS Eliot

David, Asaph, the sons of Korah, Solomon, Moses and a few un-named people authored psalms.

The Design of Psalm

• Psalms 1-2 Introduction

• Psalms 3-42 – Foundation of Covenant Faithfulness

• Psalms 42-89 – Hope for Messiah

• Psalms 90-106 – God as the King over Creation

• Psalms 107-150 – Psalm of Ascent and Praise

God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble. Therefore we will not fear, though the earth give way and the mountains fall into the heart of the sea, though its waters roar and foam and the mountains quake with their surging. – Psalm 46:1-3

Lord, You have been our dwelling place in all generations. Before the mountains were born or You gave birth to the earth and the world, even from everlasting to everlasting, You are God. – Psalm 90:1-2

Hear my prayer, Lord; let my cry for help come to you. Do not hide your face from me when I am in distress. Turn your ear to me; when I call, answer me quickly. – Psalm 102:1-2

Why does Psalm 23 stand out?

• God is intimate and personal

• God’s provision

• God’s protection and guidance

• God’s peace and restoration

• God’s unfailing love

How did David become a man after God’s own heart and such a prolific poet?

• The answer lies in the difference between isolation and solitude.

“Without solitude, it is virtually impossible to live a spiritual life. We do not take the spiritual life seriously if we do not set aside some time to be with God and listen to him.” – Henri Nouwen 

Questions to Consider

• What poems/songs have been meaningful in your life?

• Does it surprise you of the intentional flow of the book of Psalms? Why or why not?

• How has Psalm 23 and the rest of the Psalms been meaningful in your life?

• How have you experienced the difference between solitude and isolation?

• How do you practice solitude with God on a regular basis?