Resting in Green Pastures

For the sheep in the LORD's fold, the second benefit is as David writes, "He maketh me to lie down in green pastures" (Psalm 23:2a), or as some commentators note, "in pastures of tender grass." The picture here is one of calmness and rest; of flocks that lie down on the grass “fully fed” or “satisfied,” their wants being completely supplied. As is noted in verse 1, with the LORD as Shepherd the sheep knows no want. However, this picture does not provide us with an understanding of all the shepherd does to ensure his sheep are able to rest comfortably.

Is his excellent book, A Shepherd Looks at Psalm 23, Phillip Keller notes that because of the sheep's temperament it is "almost impossible" for them to be made to lie down unless four requirements are met: 1) Owing to their timidity they refuse to lie down unless they are free of all fear; 2) Because of the social behavior within a flock, they will not lie down unless they are free from friction with others of their kind; 3) If tormented by flies or parasites, they will not lie down. Only when free of these pests can they relax; 4) They will not lie down as long as they feel in need of finding food. They must be free from hunger. Keller continues, "It is significant that to be at rest there must be a definite sense of freedom from fear, tension, aggravations and hunger. The unique aspect of the picture is that it is only the sheepman himself who can provide release from these anxieties. It all depends upon the diligence of the owner, whether or not his flock is free of disturbing influences."

It is no wonder the Psalmist writes, "He maketh me to lie down..." In other words, given all my peculiarities and special needs, the Shepherd has done everything possible to make me (His sheep) comfortable; to lie down, to rest, to relax, to be content, quiet, and flourishing. Albert Barnes notes, "Applied to the psalmist himself, or to the people of God generally, the idea is, that the wants of the soul are met and satisfied, and that, in the full enjoyment of this, there is the conviction of abundance - the repose of the soul at present satisfied, and feeling that in such abundance want will always be unknown."

The sheep without a shepherd is restless, discontented, always agitated, disturbed, and never does well. The same is true of people. In the Christian's life there is no substitute for the assuredness that our Shepherd is nearby. There is nothing like His presence to dispel the fear, the panic, and the terror of the unknown. In Ezekiel 34:15-16a the Lord God declares, "I will feed my flock, and I will cause them to lie down, saith the Lord GOD. I will seek that which was lost, and bring again that which was driven away, and will bind up that which was broken, and will strengthen that which was sick" (KJV).

Obviously, this is a Shepherd who can be trusted. If you are in His fold, there is no better place to be. If you are not, the green pasture awaits. Now is as good a time as any to trust Him as your personal savior. He will then be your shepherd too.