Surely. A word used to convey confidence, surety and firm conviction. The first word in this final verse of Psalm 23, opening up the final phrase with assurance. But assurance of what?
This culmination of this Psalm encourages us that “all the days of my life” will be filled and consumed with God’s goodness, mercy and steadfast love pursuing us. It’s the final stamp of God’s affirmation that His presence will relentlessly follow us. Not just when we walk by the beautiful blue streams of water, or rest completely in the gorgeous green pastures. Not only when we face the valley of the shadow of death, but ALL. THE. DAYS. OF. MY. LIFE. Forever. As far as we can see, and then a little more.
Matthew tells us that Jesus is named: “Immanuel. God with us.” and this Psalm, written many many years before Matthew, re-iterates this same truth. God is with us. His presence goes before us, and hems us in behind and before. His love for us pursues us relentlessly. His goodness and grace chase us. His mercy and care protect us.
Surely also applies to the final few words of this Psalm – “and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever.” A promise. Sealed with blood. Marked by nails. Consumed by death. The promise of eternal life with the Father, made possible through His son, Jesus, available to us who believe! What a gift.
As you go about your day today, your to-do-list, your school drop offs and pick ups, your grocery shopping, your emails, your gym session, your meetings, your presentations, your events, whatever you are involved in; be SURE that the steadfast love of the Lord is actively seeking you out. Open your heart to this gift of love. Invite Him in, believe and be saved, and live with the eternal assurance of dwelling with Him for eternity.
hope of heart 