Psalms 23

The Lord is the Pastor of his people; therefore it may be inferred that they shall not want, Psalm 23:1 . How he guides, feeds, and protects them, Psalm 23:2 , Psalm 23:3 . Even in the greatest dangers they may be confident of his support, Psalm 23:4 . His abundant provision for them, Psalm 23:5 . The confidence they may have of his continual mercy, and their eternal happiness, Psalm 23:6 .

There is nothing particular in the title; it is simply attributed to David; but as it appears to be a thanksgiving of the Israelites for their redemption from the Bablylonish captivity, it cannot with propriety be attributed to David. Some think it was written by David in his exile, which is not likely; others, that he penned it when he was finally delivered from the persecution of Saul. I rather incline to the opinion that it was written after the captivity. The Chaldee seems to suppose that it was written to celebrate the goodness of God to the Israelites in the desert. It is a truly beautiful Psalm. Supposing it to have been written after the captivity, we see,

1. The redeemed captives giving thanks to God for their liberty.

Acknowledging that God had brought back their lives from the grave.

They represent themselves in Judea as a flock in an excellent pasture.

They declare that from the dangers they have passed through, and from which God had delivered them, they can have no fear of any enemy.

They conclude, from what God has done for them, that his goodness and mercy shall follow them all their days.

6. That they shall no more be deprived of God's worship, but shall all their days have access to his temple.