Read PSALM 23

A national study recently found that one of every 25 American teenagers has attempted suicide. One of every eight has thought about it. Suicide is in fact the third-leading cause of death for young people aged 10 to 24 years.

Sometimes life can seem over- whelming, and it may seem that the only way out is death. But this is an evil lie. The truth is that while God never promised life would be easy, He can and does provide in the face of the impossible. This is communicated in today’s familiar psalm, especially in verse 5: “You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies. You anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows.”

This is an image of provision as well as protection. Picture King David as an honored guest at a banquet given by the Lord. They are not allies, for that would imply equality. God is the King of Kings, and David is a vassal king who has been taken under His protection. God Himself will protect and defend David and the nation of Israel against their enemies. They have absolutely nothing to fear!

“Shepherd” was a common ancient Near Eastern metaphor for king (v. 1). Ideally, a king was to care for, provide for, and protect his “sheep” (people)—though in practice, of course, human kings did not and could not live up to this ideal. Even David couldn’t live up to it perfectly. Only God can do that! He provides food, rest, guidance, comfort, and protection for His people (vv. 2–4). The key is His presence—“You are with me.”

David’s confidence extended beyond a specific set of circumstances to all of life. He believed God’s “goodness and love will follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the LORD forever” (v. 6).

APPLY THE WORD

If you or someone you know is struggling with depression or suicidal thoughts, seek professional help and Christian counseling. Worry and anxiety can be expressions of mental disorders needing trained psychological assistance, and we should be thankful for the resources God provides for our mental health.

http://www.todayintheword.org