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Psalm 23: The Good Shepherd

PsalmsComfortDavid

The Lord is my shepherd

Psalm 23 is perhaps the best-loved psalm of all. In six short verses David describes the Lord as a shepherd who provides, leads, restores and protects — even through the valley of the shadow of death.

A journey of trust

  • “I shall not want” — the Shepherd provides everything needed

  • “Green pastures… still waters” — rest and peace

  • “He restoreth my soul” — renewal and guidance in righteousness

  • “The valley of the shadow of death” — His presence removes fear

  • “Thou preparest a table” — abundance even before enemies

  • “I will dwell in the house of the LORD for ever” — eternal security

Application

Where do you need the Shepherd today — provision, rest, guidance or courage? Read the psalm slowly and let each picture become a prayer.

Reflection

“Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me.” — Psalm 23:4

Key verses (6)

Psalms 23:1

The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want.

The LORD is my shepherd

Psalms 23:2

He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters.

Green pastures, still waters

Psalms 23:3

He restoreth my soul: he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name's sake.

He restoreth my soul

Psalms 23:4

Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me.

Through the valley, no fear

Psalms 23:5

Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies: thou anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over.

A table prepared

Psalms 23:6

Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the LORD for ever.

Dwelling in the house of the LORD