psalm 23

Frequently referred to as "The Lord is My Shepherd," Psalm 23 is one of the most cherished and well-known Psalms in the Bible. Its words have provided comfort and inspiration to countless individuals throughout history and still do today. It’s shown up in hymns and songs (Still Waters - Psalm 23, by Leanna Crawford is a current favorite), has made its way into movies (The Bishop’s Wife and Paradise Road come to mind) and is often one of the first Psalms taught to children in Sunday School.

I’ve never done a deep dive into it and, instead, have read it as a kind of poem about consolation and God’s care not to mention the beautiful imagery that comes to mind through the words. A couple of months ago, I heard a woman read it while breaking down God’s provision in each action and it completely opened my heart and mind to a deeper meaning of the Psalm and how God’s unwavering care for His children is full and tender, rich and all-encompassing. I wrote it all down in my journal and had the opportunity to share it with some ladies at a bible study retreat I attended last month. They all had me read it again so that they could add the words next to the psalm in their bibles and we all just kinda sat there afterward and marveled at how God so completely shows up for us in ways that we’d completely glossed over all our lives. I invite you to see it in the same way…

The Lord is my Shepherd - relationship

I shall not want - supply

He maketh me to lie down in green pastures - rest

He leadeth me beside the still waters - refreshment

He restoreth my soul - healing

He leadeth me in the paths of righteousness - guidance

For His namesake - purpose

Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death - testing

I will fear no evil - protection

For Thou are with me - faithfulness

Thy rod and Thy staff, they comfort me - discipline

Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of my enemies - hope

Thou anointest my head with oil - consecration

My cup runneth over - abundance

Surely goodness and mercy will follow me all the days of my life - blessing

And I will dwell in the house of the Lord - security

Forever - eternity

I KNOW!!! Not only is God with us in every circumstance of our lives, He also knows us so well as to give us exactly what we need to trust our very life to Him in a way that brings us His peace and the blessed assurance that He is ours and we belong to Him. Now and forever, by His still waters, we’re safe.