Goodness and Mercy

Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life... Psalm 23:6 (NKJV)

When I was a preschooler, we attended a small church in my parent's hometown. My mom had a good friend there named Janet. A favorite memory I the have of that friend, with whom I share the same name, is listening to her and my mom sing together. Janet had a very strong soprano voice, and my mom sang alto and played the piano. There were many songs, but the only one I distinctly remember them singing is Surely Goodness and Mercy. When I read this verse I remembered sitting on the old hard pews at that church and I could still hear their voices.

The beginning of this Psalm starts with the familiar verse The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. David was s shepherd so it would be natural for him to write from his own experiences. Sheep are completely dependent on their shepherd for guidance, protection and provisions. They are prone to wander and are helpless on their own. As the Lord is our shepherd, we too are in need of His guidance and care for us. When we submit to follow Him, we can trust that He is leading us in the right places and right ways. We will not have to worry - we can be content.

David goes on to describe his walk through lush pastures, sorrowful valleys, fears of evil, and the presence of enemies. He then ends this Psalm with our verse. What a huge statement. Goodness and mercy follow the child of God each and every day! As thoughts of past and present flood your mind, what do you see? Are you hanging on to anger or bitterness from the past? God is waiting for you to let go of that and fill you with joy. Are you at home with toddlers, or caring for a sick or elderly family member? God is at your side. Do you have a difficult work environment? He will walk you through. Are you lonely? Your heavenly Father will take your hand. Are you rejoicing? He rejoices with you!

Do you trust the Good Shepherd? As you journey through life, remember God is the perfect shepherd and he promises to guide and protect you through every facet of your life.

Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me - not some, not most - but all the days of my life. The twin graces will pursue us - actively seek us when we follow the Good Shepherd.

Heavenly Father, help us to recognize your goodness and mercy in our lives. Thank you for Your promises and the graces you so freely give us.

Janet Stutzman