All scripture is beautiful because it is God breathed. Some scripture is melodic and rolls right off the tongue. Some scripture is more difficult to speak. Some scripture is easily understood. Some scripture is only understood with prayer and revelation by God. But, all scripture is beautiful because it was whispered by the One.
We recite scripture in our worship services, at funerals, at weddings, at anniversaries, at special events. We memorize scripture for times of fear, anger, comfort, strength, exaltation, hope, honor, praise.
One of the most widely recognized scriptures is the 23rd Psalm.
The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters. He restoreth my soul: he leaded me in the paths of righteousness for his name’s sake. Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear not evil; for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me. Thou prepares a table before me in the presence of mine enemies: though anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over. Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever.
This is such a beautiful Psalm. But to be flat out honest, usually when these verses are recited in unison, it is just downright depressing. Could we be any less dramatic? Any less enthusiastic? Anyone else feel that way? We recite it in monotone, as slow as we can possibly go. It is just a dirge! We certainly don’t make it sound like the breath of God whispered to His children.
If you carefully read the words, visualize the sights and sounds of David’s time, Psalm 23 is not actually a dirge, it’s a psalm of praise! Check this out:
The Lord protects me! He is all I need! I find rest in him! He is my strength! He leads the way and when I am following His lead, He is glorified! When I travel through tough times and my spirit is crushed, I won’t be afraid because He is always with me! His love, mercy and grace are constantly protecting me! He shows my enemies how much He adores me! He honors me, even when I’m not honorable! His love for me is overflowing! His mercy and love seek only good for me every day! And I will live with the One True God in eternity, forever!
I don’t know about you, but that sounds like praise to me. That sounds like something we can call upon for comfort, for strength, for support, for blessing. Our cup runneth over, isn’t that cause for a little praise?