Summer In The Psalms: Restored By The Shepherd
Sunday June 29, 2025
Doug Walls
Part of Summer In The Psalms
July 1, 2025

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Sunday June 29th, 2025 @ The OWA Theatre

In this powerful exploration of Psalm 23, we’re invited to rediscover the profound comfort and guidance offered by our divine Shepherd. The psalm paints a vivid picture of God as our protector, provider, and source of peace amidst life’s chaos. We’re reminded that true rest and restoration come from allowing God to lead us to ‘green pastures’ and ‘quiet waters’ - symbolic of His abundant provision and calming presence. The imagery of a prepared table in the presence of enemies speaks to God’s ability to nourish and strengthen us even in our most challenging moments. As we reflect on this timeless passage, we’re encouraged to surrender our lives fully to the Shepherd’s care, trusting in His unfailing love and guidance. This message challenges us to seek our peace and purpose in God’s presence, rather than in the fleeting promises of the world.

Discussion Questions:

  1. How does the image of God as our shepherd impact our daily lives and decision-making processes?

  2. In what ways do you find yourself resisting God’s guidance, and how can you become more receptive to His leading?

  3. How can we cultivate a deeper sense of contentment and trust in God’s provision, even in challenging circumstances?

  4. What does it mean to you personally to have your soul ‘refreshed and restored’ by God?

  5. How can we create spaces of quiet and stillness in our lives to better hear God’s voice amidst the chaos of the world?

  6. In what ways does the metaphor of God preparing a table for us in the presence of our enemies challenge or comfort you?

  7. How can we apply the concept of God’s rod and staff in our spiritual lives for guidance and protection?

  8. What does it look like in practical terms to ‘dwell in the house of the Lord’ in our everyday lives?

  9. How can we balance seeking God’s peace and rest with being bold and courageous in facing life’s challenges?

  10. In what areas of your life do you need to surrender control and trust more fully in God as your shepherd?

Community Group Guide Based on the teaching:

*Opening Prayer: *

Begin the session with a prayer, asking God to guide your discussion and help everyone apply the lessons from Psalm 23 to their lives.

Ice Breaker Question:
Share with the group: What’s your favorite place to find peace and rest? Describe it in detail.

Key Scripture: Psalm 23

Discussion Questions:

  1. The sermon emphasized God as our shepherd. How does viewing God in this role change your perspective on your relationship with Him?

  2. David wrote this psalm during a time of great distress. How can we maintain the attitude that “I have all that I need” (v.1) even in difficult circumstances?

  3. The pastor talked about God leading us to “still and quiet waters.” Where in your life do you need God’s guidance to find peace?

  4. How does the image of God preparing a table for us “in the presence of our enemies” (v.5) encourage you in facing life’s challenges?

  5. What does it mean to you personally to have your soul “refreshed and restored” by God?

  6. The sermon mentioned the shepherd’s staff as a tool for guidance and protection. In what areas of your life do you need God’s guidance or protection right now?

Key Takeaways:

  1. God, as our shepherd, provides care, guidance, protection, and nourishment for our lives.
  2. True contentment comes from seeking God’s kingdom above all else.
  3. God offers us peace and restoration even in the midst of chaos and challenges.
  4. Spending time in God’s presence is crucial for spiritual restoration and facing life’s difficulties.

**Practical Applications:
1. Daily Quiet Time: Commit to spending at least 10 minutes each day in a “quiet place” with God, reading Scripture and praying.

  1. Gratitude Journal: Start a journal where you write down things you’re thankful for each day, focusing on how God has provided for you.

  2. Scripture Memorization: Memorize Psalm 23 over the next week, reflecting on its meaning as you do so.

  3. Acts of Trust: Identify one area in your life where you struggle to trust God fully. Take a specific action this week to demonstrate your trust in Him as your shepherd.

  4. Community Support: Share with the group one challenge you’re facing and allow others to pray for and encourage you.

Closing Prayer:
End the session by praying Psalm 23 together, personalizing it for each group member’s situation.