One of the most beloved conclusions to any psalm or verse of the Bible is found right here in Psalm 23:6. Imagine this, a long pathway stretches out before you. Walking to your side and slightly ahead of you is the Good Shepherd. Following behind you are two individuals holding hands. Their names are Goodness and Mercy. Are they following you? Or, are they following the Good Shepherd that is leading you? The regenerate know the answer to that question. There is nothing in me worth following. Their presence is a bonus of following Him. They're part of the package. A lovely addition to His leading.
They were there as he led into the grassy pasture. They were there as he caused me to lie down by the still water. They were there when he led me into the paths of righteousness for His name's sake. They were there as I walked in the valley of the shadow of death. They witnessed the Good Shepherd set a table before the face of my enemies. They watched as He anointed my head with oil and rejoiced as my well-filled cup brimmed over.
Only now, at the end of the psalm, do I look behind me and see them. They're smiling back as we approach the house of the LORD.
Listen to the episode here.
Dave