TABLELAND

Psalm 23:5a

 

Intro.: The psalmist pictures the Great Shepherd leading His sheep 
 through the valleys to higher ground in verse 4.  Now in verse 5 
 they have reached the “tableland.”

      “Table” = the high mountain country of the summer ranges, 
  the flat-topped plateaus, the “mesas.”

  Notice the work of the Shepherd for His sheep in this tableland: 

I. Preparation

      “Thou preparest a table before me…”

   A. Preliminary Survey & Cleaning of the Land. 

   Applic.:  Jesus has been there before us. He knows the  
   dangers and prepares the fields for our feasting. 
 

      B. Cleaning & Preparing Water Sources. 

            Applic.: Jesus understands our needs, weaknesses, and  
   temptations.  He is with us to help us. 

• Trusting in the care of our Great Shepherd, the Christian can walk in calm and quiet confidence !

 
 

II. Protection

      “…in the presence of mine enemies” 

      A. There are Predators who seek to devour. 

            Applic.: The Devil is seeking to destroy the Believer. 

      B. There is Protection by the Shepherd. 

   Applic.:  The Christian would be wise to constantly walk 
    close beside his Great Shepherd! 

• Following the Great Shepherd to the “tableland”, the Christian lives abundantly and without fear !

 
 

Concl.: