One of the most powerful biblical pictures of Jesus Christ is as our Shepherd. Here in Psalm 23, we see Him as the Good Shepherd who cares for the sheep.
This psalm gives a graphic picture of the suffering King. It is likely that David initially spoke/penned these words to describe a personal affliction. Yet, the Lord gave him the words in such a way that it would be a prophetic explanation of the physical and spiritual sufferings that would be endured by the Son of God.
Prayer is one of the most needful and least exercised benefits that we have as believers. It is no wonder individuals, homes, and churches are not experiencing the power of God. We are not even asking for it.
To understand the gospel record of Jesus Christ, we must go back before the beginning of time where the Son of God already dwells. This lesson deals with the very important truth that God’s Son did not begin at the time of His birth in a manger. He existed in eternity past and was the Creator of all things.
Esther had kept the identity of her people a secret from the king. Now, by Haman’s influence, the king has issued a decree to destroy the entire Jewish race. If she appears before the king without being recognized, she will be put to death. If she reveals her people and the decree stands, she will be put to death. The only solution is for her to die to herself before she acts. This she does with integrity and honor.
