Psalm 23

BibleGateway.com Psalm 23
Sorry this is a day late...

When the LORD is your shepherd. What do you need? He provides everything you need. Not ony that but the LORD will restore your soul. Why does he do this? His name's sake.

What does it mean for his name's sake? God's name is his reputation. He protects it always. Those that profane the name of God better beware, he will at once put an end to all mocking of his name. What do we as believers have to do with his name? The reason God restores us to the paths of righteousness is to reflect the glory of his name. When God makes us part of his family we become like mirrors that are meant to reflect his worth, reflect the glory of his name. We can not add to his glory or his worth. The worthiness of God is infinite and nothing you bring can add to it. All other pretend gods want to be served and carried around, they are needy. The worth of the fake gods of this world is reflected by how much man can give or do for him. The One True God gives to me because he has all worth already. When he makes me joyful in him, I reflect his worth to everyone around me.

Does this joy exempt me from the troubles of life? Shield me from the suffering of this world? Not at all, and sometimes it seems to be increased on those that have the Lord with them. In contrast though because the LORD is with me I will fear no evil. As Paul said, "For me to live is Christ, and to die is gain." The reason a Christian does not need to fear evil is because at death, eternity begins. The capacity to enjoy all that God is fully is that much closer. So do not protect your life as if it is all you have. You have been given the riches of the universe for all eternity.

Lord, how can I live today to reflect the glory of your name? I want the whole world to see how my cup overflows. I want them to come dwell with me in the joy of the Lord, forever.