Three men gave a presentation from Psalms 23. It went like this:

a. The first man read from the Psalms with superb diction, clarity, and reverence. The audience stood up and gave him a standing ovation.

b. The second man quoted the entire Psalms without one error or misquotation. The audience shouted praise and gratitude to him for his stunning recall and fervor.

c. The third man spoke from the Psalms noting the words that spoke of the Shepherd. The audience was so moved by His care and provisions for the sheep that there was no dry eye in the assembly (they wept in humble gratitude).

There were three different reactions from the audience in each presentation. Let’s consider these:

a. The first man knew how to speak with superb diction, clarity, and reverence as he read the Psalms.

b. The second man knew how to speak with precise recall from his memory about the Psalms.

c. The third man knew not only how to read and quote the sacred text but also knew the Shepherd in the Psalms.²

When pastors, or believers in general, read, quote, and present Christ from Scripture, they must lift the Lord high to draw all men unto Him and enlighten the listener through the Word of God. Christ-centered teaching is what we are called to do. We are messengers of Christ. Christ being lifted for others to see is the message! Let us never get in the way of the work God can do through us. Submissive obedience to His will is what will give depth to the message we share.

Suggested prayer: Dear Lord, thank you for the privilege of being an instrument of Your love and grace here on earth. I am available and ready to be used for your glory. I lay all pride and selfishness down at your feet and ask that you give me a humble and obedient Spirit that will seek to exalt you in everything I do. Thank you for hearing and answering my prayer. In Jesus’ name, amen.

1. John 13:16-17 (NIV).

2. www.sermoncentral.com

Today’s Encounter was written by: Crystal B.