Future in Focus

Bible Reading: Psalm 23

With 2014 in the rear-view mirror and most of 2015 still before us, our thoughts tend to be future-oriented.  What will this year's headlines reveal about the economy?  The Middle East?  ISIS? Wars and rumors of wars?  Births and deaths?  How will our own personal headlines read?  As you navigate your way through 2015, is your outlook one of anticipation or apprehension?  Confidence or consternation? 

In Psalm 23, David expresses his optimism regarding the future:  "Surely goodness and mercy (loving kindness, NASB) shall follow me all the days of my life" (v. 6).  As he looks back on his life, David sees the faithful, loving, shepherding hand of God protecting, providing, leading, comforting, healing and delivering.  His past experiences have forged an unwavering confidence in the present and an unshakable hope for the future.  Not "possibly" or even "likely," but SURELY is the abiding reality of God's steadfast goodness and lovingkindness in his life.  And just as surely is that wonderful promise given to all who possess the faith of David. 

Knowing that a good God orders and oversees our days, however, doesn't mean that everything awaiting us in 2015 will be "good" (as we perceive it).  David had to deal with ferocious lions, an intimidating giant, a paranoid, hot-tempered king, and a rebellious son, among other things.  He knew what it was to feel isolated and lonely, abandoned and afraid, misunderstood and persecuted, weak and sinful and broken.  But all along the way, a good and loving God was at work on his behalf to sustain, strengthen, forgive, restore and perfect.  And as each day's happenings unfold for us in 2015, we, too, can rest in the knowledge that "in ALL THINGS God works for the GOOD of those who (like David) love Him, and who have been called according to His purpose" (Rom. 8:28, NIV). 

As Haddon Robinson says in his book, Trusting the Shepherd:  Insights from Psalm 23, "Surely goodness and mercy will pursue us.  'Surely,' because God has never failed us in the past.  'Surely,' because He does not begin a work He does not complete.  'Surely,' because the experience of His flock attests to what David knew:  that God never forsakes us.  If the Lord is your Shepherd and you are His sheep, He walks before you, and goodness and mercy will follow you all the days of your life.  That includes today."

Scott Brinson