Living without Lack.
Psalm 23
When opposition strikes, it can seem totally devastating. If you are like most people, you will recognize how the evil one often presents us with two different truths—the truth of what God says and the truth of what we see—both of which are true at the same moment. For the next few weeks, we will look at what Psalm 23 has to say about overcoming attacks and temptations.
1. What stood out to you this week?
Read Psalm 23
2. Reread verse 4. David’s response is, “Even though.” David does not deny what he sees but does not allow what he sees to determine his reality. What does David say about his (and our) reality?
3. Pastor James introduced the concept of 'even though’ confidence in God in his message. This is a belief that, despite our circumstances, we trust in God's promises and provision. What does this concept mean to you, and how can it be developed in your life?
4. What is wrong with thinking that if we were truly His, we would never travel into dark places?
5. Reread verse 5. If God is so powerful, why must the table be in the presence of the enemies? What is God showing our enemies about who is really in control?
6. The table represents God’s provision in your life. God is always preparing you and providing what you need to overcome. In the face of opposition and adversity, God invites us to partake of the abundant feast of His grace, mercy, and provision. What does our countenance in the presence of your enemies say about the greatness of our Heavenly Father?
7. Read James 1:2-4. Trials act like a refining fire, testing the authenticity and strength of our faith. God is not preparing us to be destroyed but strengthened. Can you share a time when you went through a “valley” and God used it to make you stronger?
8. Read Genesis 50:20. Joseph is saying, “Even though my brothers meant to harm me, God turned it around for good.” David got this, and he wants us to get it, too. It's about facing our enemies—those bullies, deceivers, and troublemakers—and saying, “Hey, I know you're trying to mess with me, but God's got bigger plans for me." How does this kind of extraordinary confidence in God affect our lives?
9. Read Psalm 23:5. Imagine your life as a cup, waiting to be filled. God’s blessings and favor are like the refreshing liquid that pours into that cup. But here’s the catch: it has to flow through your head first. Think of it this way: your cup will never truly overflow with blessings if you don’t allow your mind to be constantly anointed with the oil of God’s wisdom and guidance. How does staying focused on the one who blesses us help us to keep our heads anointed?
Pastor James' Sermon Notes:
(Psalm 23:1) "The Lord is my shepherd; I lack nothing,"
(Psalm 23:2-3 NIV) "He makes me lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside quiet waters, He refreshes my soul. He guides me along the right paths for his name’s sake."
(Psalm 23:4 NIV) "Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me."
Claim an “Even Though” Confidence
(Psalm 23:4 NIV) "Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me."
(Psalm 23:5 NIV) "You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies. You anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows."
Trust God’s Preparing You.
(James 1:2–4 NIV) "2 Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, 3 because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. 4 Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything."
(Genesis 50:20 NIV) "You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good to accomplish what is now being done, the saving of many lives."
(Psalm 23:5 NIV) "You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies. You anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows. "
(Psalm 23:6 NIV) "Surely your goodness and love will follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever."
(Psalm 23:5 NIV) “You anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows.”
Keep Your Head Under God’s Anointing.