16 Dec 2016, Psalm 23 诗篇 23, God is a Loving Ruler 神是慈爱的君主

Scripture Reading  : Psalm 23

Theme                      : God is a Loving Ruler

 

  1. God the Shepherd (1–4). A shepherd is a ruler (2 Sam. 7:7). God is a loving ruler as depicted through a caring shepherd. In Him, we do not want/lack anything that is necessary for the good of our soul. He leads us in right paths and restores our souls even in this broken world/valley of shadow of death. When we face evil, God is there to comfort us, help us, and yes, even to discipline us when we need it. Rod is for discipline (2 Sam.7:14) or for protection to beat wild animals/enemies. Staff is for comfort and a symbol of authority (Is. 14:5). It is used to guide sheep. This promise of God’s loving care is for all believers in all times. Because of this promise believers can have the greatest confidence and joy in God.
  1. God the Host (5–6). The believer is pictured as a guest at God’s table in His house. He is a king who lovingly provides for us. Back then, to have a meal is not just a casual social event, but communicated deep commitment and friendship. The believer is confident that God will bless him all the days of his life even in times of evil. God will vindicate him even in the presence of his enemies. He will live with God forever in perfect bliss in God’s place/eternal kingdom on earth.

 

Praying the Scripture

This picture of God as a loving ruler is fully displayed in the person of Jesus, who loves His people to the point of dying for them. Not only does Jesus die for His subjects but He also cares for them on earth. He promises to give our souls rest if we follow Him (Matt. 11:28-30). He also rebuked His apostles when they were in sin; but His love never departed from them. God is a loving, gentle, and humble God. Do you view God as such, or do you see God as a harsh slave-driver? May your view of God be correct! May you have a loving, vital relationship with God, your loving and caring shepherd/king!
 
 
 

经文:诗篇23

主题:神是慈爱的君主

 

  1. 神是牧者(1-4)。牧者即是统治者(撒下7:7)。神是慈爱的统治者,如文中那位有爱心的牧者。我们因着祂不会缺少灵里之需,使我们得益处。祂领我们走义路,即便在这破碎的世界或死荫的幽谷里也能苏醒我们的灵。当我们面对恶势力时,神就在那里安慰、帮助,甚至必要时管教我们。杖是用于管教的(撒下7:14),或因自卫打野兽与敌人。竿的作用是安慰人,也是权柄的象征(赛14:5)。它能引导羊的去路。这是神对历世历代之信徒的应许,会以慈爱照顾我们。因此,信徒能对神有最大的信心和喜乐。
  1. 神是主人(5-6)。信徒被视为神家中的一名客人。祂是以慈爱供应我们的君王。那时,共餐不仅是一个随性的社交事件;它代表了深厚的情谊和委身。信徒能确信神在他一生的年日里必祝福他,包括遭祸害之时。即便在他敌人面前,神也会替他伸冤。他要在神地上的永恒国度里幸福美满地与神永远共度。

 

用经文祷告

耶稣完全地展示了神为慈爱的君主——祂爱祂的子民,以至代他们死。耶稣不但代祂的民受死,还照顾他们世上的年日。我们若跟从祂,祂应许让我们的灵安息(太11:28-30)。使徒犯罪的时候,耶稣会斥责他们,但祂的爱从不离弃。神是慈爱、温柔且谦卑的神。你是否视神为此,或认为祂是苛刻残酷的暴君?愿你能准确地看待神!愿你与神的关系是充满爱和活力的;祂是你慈爱的牧者和君王!