David has two assurances because the Lord is his shepherd. First, goodness and love will follow him all the days of his life. Goodness and love are personified. He imagines they are attendants who ensure all is well with their companion.
Goodness and love for the Lord’s sheep are not the same as those whose hope is in this world. Surely David experienced times when he was led through the valley of the shadow of death. No. Goodness for the Lord’s people is found in his very presence; his light that gives life to his people. (John 1) Love is the same. Love for the Lord’s people is God dwelling within. God’s love reassures us in ways that words cannot convey. (Ephesians 3:14-19)
David is also sure that he will dwell in the house of the Lord forever. David knew and believed in eternal life in the Messiah. He believes the Lord has a house. Jesus promises his disciples, “Do not let your hearts be troubled. Trust in God; trust also in me. In my Father’s house are many rooms; if it were not so, I would have told you. I am going there to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with me that you also may be where I am. You know the way to the place where I am going. I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me. If you really knew me, you would know my Father as well. From now on, you do know him and have seen him. Anyone who has seen me has seen the Father.” (John 14:1-4, 6-7, 9)
God the Shepherd-King has said, “Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you.” (Hebrews 13:5) “Blessed is the man who perseveres under trial, because when he has stood the test, he will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love him.” (James 1:12)
