“And I will dwell in the house of the Lord Forever.”
Today is the final post in this series on Psalm 23.
We began with the jubilant pronouncement “The Lord is My Shepherd,” and now we close with a buoyant affirmation, “I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever.”
We have traversed the green pastures in the lowlands, to the refreshing still waters, through the dangerous mountain paths, to the plateau of the mountain top and now return to the home ranch to reside in the winter months.
Throughout this profound and beloved Psalm David has articulated the themes of divine guidance, provision, and protection. He now closes with a confidant affirmation that encapsulates his sense of security, belonging and eternal communion with the Shepherd. Like the sheep whose confidence, expectation, and trust in the shepherd’s navigation has been verified in every possible situation, David’s faith in the Divine Shepherd has been established in a myriad of life’s circumstances.
To “dwell” implies more than just a mere physical residence. It speaks to a relationship. To communion. Fellowship. Intimacy. In Psalm 90:1 Moses expressed his affection and closeness with Jehovah when he wrote “Lord, You have been our dwelling place in all generations.”
“The house of the Lord” in the minds of ancient Israel reminded them of God’s presence first in the tabernacle, then later in the temple. It symbolized God’s abiding residence. The Old Testament speaks of “the house of God” over 230 times in this connection.
Today, as Christians we belong in God’s family. We dwell in His house. We experience the benefits and blessings associated with His Divine presence in our lives. Paul used this metaphor in 1 Timothy 3:15 when he identified “the house of God which is the church of the living God.” In fact, the apostle Peter affirmed that we are “a spiritual house” (1 Pet. 2:5).
The privileges and prerogatives of dwelling in the house of God allows us to join in fellowship with the Son. We share in the spiritual blessings that allow us to wear the family name, sit at the table, and partake in the Divine feast. All of this signifies a deep, abiding, loving relationship we enjoy. We can feel at ease because we’re at home with the Father.
“Forever.” That’s a powerful word. It adds an eternal dimension to this relationship. It reminds us that the Shepherd’s care extends beyond earth life and beyond the grave. It reflects our hope, our deep desire and abiding confidence in God’s promise of everlasting life in the presence of the Father. As Max Lucado observed, “David isn’t seeking a temporary assignment, but rather a lifelong residence.” And so are we. Both in this life and in the one to come.
We close where we began. God is the Shepherd and we are the sheep. Without Him we are lost. Scattered. Afraid. And without guidance, direction, nourishment, and care. Our trust in Him offers us safety, surety, security, and serenity. While life’s dangers are not eliminated, they are minimized. And they can be traversed with calm assurance and Divine presence. Thus, I am empowered to live a richly rewarding life.
How? And why?
Because, “the Lord is MY Shepherd.”
–Ken Weliever, The Preacherman
To access all 12 of these installments from Psalm 23, click here.
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Ken, I have been uplifted, encouraged and very much enjoyed every day of the week by looking forward to every Wednesday during this series on this great 23rd. Psalm. So many wonderful sermons can be and has been gleaned from it. I’ll miss it next Wednesday, almost wish it was longer. But I’m sure there will be another Passage To Ponder from the Holy Word.
Clif Dennis
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Thank you so much, Cliff. Thanks for being a loyal reader and for your kind and encouraging words. Glad you enjoyed the series.
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