Abundant Grace DailySample

Relentless Grace

Psalm 23:6

Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life, and I shall dwell in the house of the Lord forever.

The tender care of this Shepherd (v. 1-3) and Host (v.4-6) is unbelievably comprehensive. No stone is unturned. Is there grace to help us live well every single day? As we have learned, it’s not just a trickle of grace. It’s abundant!

Do you need food and drink?

There are lush pastures and still waters to satisfy you.

Do you long for renewal? Yahweh, your Shepherd, will bless you with soul rest.

Do you need a companion when the skies are dark and death's shadow encroaches? This shepherd will be right alongside you.

Do you lack confidence or feel intimidated by people who oppose you?

You need not fear because the LORD, your host, has spread out an abundant table.

Your past and present needs are all more than catered for.

Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me …

God's grace, his goodness, and mercy will follow you. What’s more, it will pursue you (ESV margin) every day of your life. The word surely implies certainty - it is a gilt-edged guarantee based on the character of God who cannot lie. This will definitely happen.

David can testify to this: “God’s unfailing kindness and steadfast love have pursued me and will pursue me every single day.”

But David, what about the future? He concludes:

… I shall dwell in the house of the LORD forever.

In other words, I will be home. Home in the presence of God forever. That’s what Jesus promised his disciples: “Let not your hearts be troubled. Believe in God; believe also in me. In my Father’s house there are many rooms … I go to prepare a place for you (John 14:1-2).”

On Day One of this devotional, I asked whether you are able to say with assurance, The LORD is my Shepherd. On Day Six, my question is, "Can you say with certainty that, after I die, I will be with God forever?" My prayer is that you will be able to say, “My Shepherd’s unfailing goodness and love has been with me every single day, and after I die I will be in God’s presence forever.”

Prayer:

Lord Jesus, my always faithful Shepherd, your abundant goodness and endless love are the story of my life. It’s not so much my following you as you’re following me. I’m amazed by your grace. You are everything I really need now and forever. Amen.

Reflection:

Think back over the last few years. What are some ways that God’s goodness and mercy have been pursuing you?

Action:

Compose a prayer that celebrates God’s goodness and abundant mercy