What Is Pursuing You?
Have you ever had a “wolf” at your door, been “hounded” by troubles, or harassing evil? Does life ever seem bleak and dark? God provides you with a much different life! It is not a life free of struggles, but it is a life of ultimate victory!
Let’s read Psalm 23:6, the last verse of the Psalm - most versions translate this verse as follows:
Psalm 23:6 Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life, and I shall dwell in the house of the LORD forever. (ESV)
Sometimes I find it useful to check the NET Bible, as they have excellent translator notes for further insight.
23:6 Surely your goodness and faithfulness will pursue me all my days, and I will live in the Lord’s house for the rest of my life. (NET)
Here are the notes that explain why the word “pursue” is used instead of follow.
The use of רָדַף (radaf, “pursue, chase”) with טוֹב וָחֶסֶד (tov vakhesed, “goodness and faithfulness”) as subject is ironic. This is the only place in the entire OT where either of these nouns appears as the subject of this verb רָדַף (radaf, “pursue”). This verb is often used to describe the hostile actions of enemies. One might expect the psalmist’s enemies (see v. 5) to chase him, but ironically God’s “goodness and faithfulness” (which are personified and stand by metonymy for God himself) pursue him instead. The word “pursue” is used outside of its normal context in an ironic manner and creates a unique, but pleasant word picture of God’s favor (or a kind God) “chasing down” the one whom he loves.
Every time it seem as if you have lost your connection with God, remember that God is pursuing you, His Loved One! He is there with you, 24/7/365, regardless of your feelings or circumstances! Focusing in on the Truth is the beginning of deliverance.
Keith Radcliffe