BRBC Bible Notes
Week by week, we post notes based on the theme of the Sunday service, so that people can follow them in their own personal devotions, in prayer triplets, or in the church life groups.
Bible Study 2: David the Poet
Main Passage: Psalm 23
Purpose of the Study
This study is designed to:
· Encourage believers to experience God’s presence as Shepherd in every circumstance.
· Strengthen faith in God’s provision, guidance, and protection.
· Challenge the church to trust God during both peaceful and challenging seasons.
Opening Prayer
“Lord, You are our Shepherd. Teach us to rest in Your care, trust Your guidance, and walk confidently in Your provision. Open our hearts to the comfort and assurance You give through Your Word. In Jesus’ name, Amen.”
1. Read the Passage: Psalm 23
Have someone read aloud slowly. Invite participants to notice the imagery of God as Shepherd and reflect on how each verse describes His care.
2. Context and Summary
David, a shepherd himself, draws on personal experience to describe God as the ultimate Shepherd. This Psalm reflects trust, provision, guidance, and protection. It moves from green pastures and still waters to the valley of the shadow of death, ending in assurance of God’s goodness and eternal presence. Psalm 23 has been a source of comfort, encouragement, and hope for believers across generations.
3. Key Themes and Reflections
A. God’s Provision and Rest
· “The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want.” God provides for our physical, emotional, and spiritual needs.
· Reflection Question: In what areas of your life do you need to trust God’s provision more fully?
· Quote: “The Lord provides not according to our circumstances, but according to His abundance.” — Unknown
· Related Scripture:
o Philippians 4:19 – God will supply every need.
o Matthew 6:31–33 – Seek first the kingdom of God.
B. Guidance and Restoration
· “He restores my soul. He leads me in paths of righteousness for His name’s sake.” God’s guidance brings spiritual renewal and directs us in His ways.
· Reflection Question: Are there areas where you are resisting God’s guidance or path?
· Quote: “God’s path may not always be easy, but it leads to life.” — Unknown
· Related Scripture:
o Proverbs 3:5–6 – Trust the Lord and He will direct your paths.
o Isaiah 58:11 – The Lord will guide and satisfy.
C. Comfort and Protection in Trials
· “Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for You are with me.” God’s presence provides courage, peace, and protection.
· Reflection Question: How does God’s presence change your perspective in difficult circumstances?
· Quote: “The Shepherd walks with us even through the darkest valleys.” — Unknown
· Related Scripture:
o Psalm 46:1–2 – God is our refuge and strength.
o Isaiah 41:10 – Fear not, for I am with you.
D. Assurance of God’s Goodness
· “Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life.” God’s faithfulness is continual and eternal.
· Reflection Question: How can we cultivate a heart that trusts God’s goodness in every season?
· Quote: “God’s mercy is not momentary; it is perpetual and unfailing.” — Unknown
· Related Scripture:
o Lamentations 3:22–23 – God’s steadfast love never ceases.
o Romans 8:28 – God works all things together for good.
4. A Word to the Church: Living in Shepherded Faith
· God invites His people to depend on Him, not merely in times of crisis, but in every season.
· A congregation guided by the Shepherd experiences unity, peace, and courage to serve faithfully.
Challenge:
· Are we walking confidently under God’s leadership, or trying to go it alone?
· How can our church encourage one another to trust God as Shepherd daily?
Group Discussion:
· Share a time when God’s guidance or protection was evident in your life.
· How can we remind one another of God’s provision and faithfulness weekly?
5. A Call to Action: Rest and Trust in God
· Spend intentional time this week reflecting on areas of need and surrendering them to God’s care.
· Encourage one another with personal testimonies of God’s guidance and goodness.
Closing Scripture Meditation
John 10:27–28 – “My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me. I give them eternal life, and they will never perish, and no one will snatch them out of my hand.”
Final Prayer
“Lord, we thank You for being our Shepherd. Teach us to trust Your provision, follow Your guidance, and rest in Your protection. Help us to walk with courage, assured of Your goodness all our days. In Jesus’ name, Amen.”
For a printable version of this, and previous editions, please click here.
| |
Suggestions to help us pray this week |
|
| |
Updates on what's going on in our church |
|
| |
Inspiration and food for thought |
|