Have you ever noticed how much confidence is expressed in the 23rd Psalm? While many people use it as a prayer or for meditation, it is primarily a declaration of faith – of trust and dependence on God. It is King David’s expression of confidence in his Provider and Protector during a particularly challenging time in his life. His family was falling apart, and he was facing his own personal failings. Drawing upon the shepherding days of his youth, this king viewed God from a sheep’s perspective. It was from a posture of humility, vulnerability, and dependence that David gained strength and assurance.
Society provides many tips on how to improve confidence: focus on your strengths, stand tall, hold up your chin, dress for success, practice positive self-talk, and get in shape. There is nothing wrong with any of those tips, but as Christians, our confidence should come from who God is and who we are in Him. “See how great a love the Father has given us, that we would be called children of God; and in fact we are” (1 John 3:1a). Our spiritual identity is the launching pad from which we face life. It shapes our thoughts, beliefs, and actions. King David knew that he served a great God whose love for him was merciful and boundless. That is what grew his confidence and allowed him to make a profound declaration of faith despite his uncertain future, painful circumstances, and personal failings. From his knees, he looked up and saw the Good Shepherd.
The 23rd Psalm (Italics added – author unknown)
The Lord is my Shepherd – That’s relationship!
I shall not want – That’s supply!
He maketh me to lie down in green pastures – That’s rest!
He leadeth me beside still waters – That’s refreshment!
He restoreth my soul – That’s healing!
He leadeth me in the paths of righteousness – That’s guidance!
For His name sake – That’s purpose!
Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death – That’s testing!
I will fear no evil – That’s protection!
For thou art with me – That’s faithfulness!
Thy rod and thy staff they comfort me – That’s discipline!
Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies – That’s hope!
Thou anointest my head with oil – That’s consecration!
My cup runneth over – That’s abundance!
Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life – That’s blessing!
And I will dwell in the house of the Lord – That’s security!
Forever –That’s eternity!
When we put our confidence in ourselves or our accomplishments, in money, in the wisdom of mankind, or in the people around us instead of in Christ Jesus, we set ourselves up for disappointment or disaster. “But blessed is the one who trusts in the Lord, whose confidence is in him” (Jeremiah 17:7 NIV). Whether I see myself as a lowly sheep or mighty warrior, my confidence comes from my recognition of the greatness of Who I serve and how much He loves me.
Scripture Reading: Jeremiah 17:5-8
Personal Application: Where does your confidence come from? What is your spiritual identity? This week, meditate on the 23rd Psalm and write your own declaration of faith. Allow your identity in Christ to be your spiritual launching pad.
Jim Grassi, D. Min.
We cherish any verse in Scripture that reminds us to keep focused and intentional about evangelism and discipleship. “But you, keep your head in all situations, endure hardship, do the work of an evangelist, discharge all the duties of your ministry.” 2 Timothy 4:5