The Secret of Happiness

Commentary

This psalm is a favorite of millions. This Psalm is probably the best-known passage in the Old Testament. It is a testimony by David to the Lord’s faithfulness throughout his life. No other psalm comes close to its popularity. It was written by David, but we cannot be sure as to when. The picture given is that of a shepherd and his flock. The Lord Jesus is the shepherd, and the sheep are born-again believers. Sheep are among the most helpless and stupid of animals. They desperately need guidance and assistance, and probably this is the reason that Christians are likened to them. This psalm does not focus on the animal like qualities of the sheep but on the discipleship qualities of those who follow. This teaches us how to follow the Good Shepherd safely home. When you recognize the good shepherd follow Him.

Over the years many people have divided this psalm in many ways but perhaps one of the best divisions I have ever heard are as follows:

1.     The secret of a happy life (vv. 1-3): The Good Shepherd shares his life with us, He gives His life for us, and he puts His life in us. 

2.     The secret of a happy death (vv. 4-5): Many religious people do not believe that you can know for sure you are going to heaven when you die. The Bible teaches that, we who know the Lord as our personal Savior, when we walk through the valley of the shadow of death Jesus goes with us and will see us safely to the other side.

      3.   The secret of a happy eternity (v. 6): We who know Him will be able to dwell in the house of the Lord forever. We cannot even begin to picture how great this will be, but we know this will be a happy eternity.

Application

The Lord wants Christians to enjoy a happy life. The secret is knowing and following Jesus Christ. All I need to do is follow Him and not wander down side paths on my own.