March 12

These are the last words of David: “The oracle of David son of Jesse, the oracle of the man raised on high, the one anointed by the God of Jacob, and the sweet psalmist of Israel: — 2 Sam 23:1 BSB

Think about the influence of David’s psalms. Take the 23rd Psalm, for example. How many blessings has it brought as it has traveled through the world? How many children have learned it with their earliest words? How many sick people have been comforted by its soothing tones as it was read in hushed rooms? How many dying people have whispered its words, especially clinging to the phrase, “Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for You are with me; Your rod and Your staff comfort me”? This precious psalm has been like an angel of comfort, bringing joy and peace to countless hearts, young and old, rich and poor alike.

I would rather have written the 23rd Psalm than have been the greatest emperor the world has ever known! And yet this is only one of many psalms. They capture the inner life of humanity, and since the heart doesn’t change over time, people will always find in these psalms words that reflect their own feelings. There will never be another prayer book like the Psalms.

“He leads me beside the still waters. He restores my soul; He guides me in the paths of righteousness.”