My Own Shepherd
John Henry Jowett's sermon on Psalm 23 emphasizes the comfort and guidance of the Good Shepherd in all aspects of life.
John Henry Jowett beautifully reflects on Psalm 23, emphasizing the Good Shepherd's ministry of rest, leading us to lie down in green pastures when our spirits need relaxation. He also highlights the discipline of change, guiding us in paths of righteousness to new pastures for soul nourishment. Even in the valley of the shadow, where fear may arise, the presence of the Lord brings comfort and provision, preparing a table before us in the presence of our enemies.
Text
PSALM xxiii.
How shall we touch this lovely psalm and not bruise it? It is exquisite as
"a violet by a mossy stone!" Exposition is almost an impertinence, its
grace is so simple and winsome.
There is the ministry of rest. "_He maketh me to lie down in green
pastures._" The Good Shepherd knows when my spirit needs relaxation. He
will not have me always "on the stretch." The bow of the best violin
sometimes requires to have its strings "let down." And so my Lord gives me
rest.
And there is the discipline of change. "_He leadeth me in the paths of
righteousness._" Those strange roads in life, unknown roads, by which I
pass into changed circumstances and surroundings! But the discipline of
the change is only to bring me into new pastures, that I may gain fresh
nutriment for my soul. "Because they have no changes they fear not God."
And there is "_the valley of the shadow_," cold and bare! What matter? He
is there! "I will fear no evil." What if I see "no pastures green"? "Thy
rod and Thy staff they comfort me!" The Lord, who is leading, will see
after my food. "Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine
enemies." I have a quiet feast while my foes are looking on!
Sermon Outline
- I points: - Introduction to Psalm 23 - The beauty and simplicity of the psalm - Importance of understanding its message
- II points: - The ministry of rest - The Good Shepherd provides relaxation - The need for spiritual rest
- III points: - The discipline of change - Leading in paths of righteousness - Embracing new circumstances for growth
- IV points: - Facing the valley of the shadow - The presence of God in difficult times - Comfort from God's guidance
- V points: - God's provision in adversity - Feasting in the presence of enemies - Trusting in God's care
Key Quotes
“He maketh me to lie down in green pastures.” — John Henry Jowett
“I will fear no evil.” — John Henry Jowett
“Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies.” — John Henry Jowett
Application Points
- Take time to rest and rejuvenate your spirit in God's presence.
- Embrace changes in life as opportunities for spiritual growth.
- Trust in God's provision and comfort during difficult times.