Linked UP Church
We all were created to live a fulfilling life that brings glory to God. At Linked UP Church, our Vision is to Connect people to God, Family, Purpose, and Community.
Minister Vincent Thomas
Upon Further Review....
Psalms 37:25 NKJV
If we limit God to what we experience in our five senses, we may be tempted to believe that we are lacking in certain areas of our lives.
What does Psalm 23 and Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs teach us about the character of God?
God had the answer before man ever knew there was a problem!
Background to Psalm 23
Psalm 22 - Describes Christ Death on the cross
Psalm 23
- Response to the finished works of Christ
- Psalm of Confidence in God As a result of an intimate relationship.
- The action of Shepherd and host are the primary focus
The Lord is with (v. 1), under (v. 2), beside (v. 2), after (v. 6), before (v. 5) and ahead of (v. 6) all His trusting children.
They shall not want for food (v. 2), drink (v. 2), strength (v. 3), guidance (v. 3), comfort (v. 4), satisfaction (v. 5), or life (v. 6).
The Shepherd is the Source for their Sheep
Psalms 23:1 NKJV
Shepherds are responsible for:
Leading
Feeding
Protecting
Providing On-call access to rest
The shepherd is responsible for keeping the flock together and finding any that were lost
UPON FURTHER REVIEW, THE LORD HAS PROVIDED ALL OF OUR NATURAL NEEDS
Psalms 23:2-3 NKJV
V.2
Green pastures - nourishment and abundance
Still waters - rest and security, all needs met
V.3
Restores my soul - The transformation by God of the lives of his people, whether corporately or individually, leading to the recovery of lost vitality and purity.
Paths of righteousness (right paths) - protected along your journey
For His name’s sake - according to His character
Romans 1:17 (The Letter to the Romans by William Barclay)
The way to a right relationship with God is revealed in it when man’s faith responds to God’s fidelity, just as it stands written: ‘It is the man who is in a right relationship with God as a result of his faith who will live.’
UPON FURTHER REVIEW, THE LORD HAS PROVIDED ALL OF OUR EMOTIONAL NEEDS
Psalms 23:4-5 NKJV
V.4
Valley of the Shadow of Death (Dark Valleys) - seasons of darkness and deepest gloom, imprisonment in the iron chains of misery
Evil-trouble
You are with me - (Psa. 138:7; Psa. 34:19; 2 Cor. 12:7-10)
Rod and staff- even in the dark valleys, the Shepherds care remains constant. Discipline in God’s word rooted in His love keeps us moving forward.
V.5
Prepare a table - switches from Shepherd to Host. Hospitality in the ancient near East required more than providing a meal. The host was responsible for guaranteeing peace for those who were in their presence.
Anoint my head - The host anoints heads before they eat
Cup overflowing - generously supply more than you need
UPON FURTHER REVIEW, THE LORD HAS PROVIDED ALL OF OUR SPIRITUAL NEEDS
Psalms 23:6 NKJV
V.6
Goodness and mercy - the most essential part of God’s character- (HEBREW: chesed - same as NT Greek charis) - covenant, unconditional love, mercy, compassion
We are encouraged to focus on God’s goodness and mercy in praise (celebration) and in loss. Regardless as to what circumstance we face God is better than good to us. Even when we don’t feel like God has been good, he’s been better than good to us.