◄ Psalm 23 ►
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The LORD Is My Shepherd (Ezekiel 34:11–24; John 10:1–21) A Psalm of David. 1 The LORD is my shepherd;a I shall not want. 2He makes me lie down in green pastures; He leads me beside quiet waters. 3He restores my soul; He guides me in the paths of righteousness for the sake of His name. 4Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death,b I will fear no evil, for You are with me; Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me. 5You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies. You anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows. 6Surely goodness and mercy will follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the LORD forever.c Footnotes: 1 a See Revelation 7:17. 4 b Or the valley of deep darkness 6 c Literally for a length of days Berean Standard Bible (BSB) printed 2016, 2020, 2022, 2025 by Bible Hub and Berean.Bible. Produced in cooperation with Bible Hub, Discovery Bible, unfoldingWord, Bible Aquifer, OpenBible.com, and the Berean Bible Translation Committee. This text of God's Word has been dedicated to the public domain. Free downloads and unlimited usage available. See also the Berean Literal Bible and Berean Interlinear Bible. Bible Hub Psalm 23 Summary The LORD Is My Shepherd Verses 1 – The Shepherd’s Sufficiency David opens with absolute confidence: “The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want.” Every need—physical, emotional, spiritual—is met in the Shepherd’s care. Verses 2 – Restful Provision “He makes me lie down in green pastures; He leads me beside quiet waters.” The Shepherd not only feeds but settles and calms. Rest and refreshment flow from His guidance. Verse 3 – Restoration and Guidance “He restores my soul; He guides me in the paths of righteousness for the sake of His name.” Worn hearts are renewed, and clear direction is given so the Shepherd’s reputation is honored. Verse 4 – Protection in the Valley “Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for You are with me; Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me.” Darkness is real, but fear is banished by the Shepherd’s close presence and steady tools. Verse 5 – Abundant Hospitality “You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies. You anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows.” The Shepherd turns host, honoring the sheep like a royal guest and overwhelming enemies with His generosity. Verse 6 – Pursued by Goodness, Welcomed Home “Surely goodness and mercy will follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the LORD forever.” Loving care chases the believer now, and unbroken fellowship awaits forever. Psalm 23 is one of the most recognized and beloved chapters in the entire Bible. Traditionally attributed to King David, this psalm portrays God as a compassionate shepherd and a constant, comforting presence in times of difficulty and fear. It affirms God's care, guidance, protection, and eternal provision for His people. Authorship and Setting Psalm 23 is attributed to David, the shepherd-king (1 Samuel 17:34–37). His early life among Judean hills flavored every line. The psalm likely reflects recollections of those days, now enriched by palace experiences of war, betrayal, and restoration (2 Samuel 15–19). Shepherd Life in Ancient Israel • Shepherds lived with their flocks year-round, guiding to seasonal grazing. • Green pastures were brief spring carpets before summer browns. A shepherd had to know hidden patches of grass. • Quiet (literally “still”) waters referred to pools or shaded streams—running water too fast could sweep a lamb away. • Rod: a stout club for defense against predators (cf. Amos 3:12). • Staff: a curved walking stick for guidance and rescue. The LORD as Shepherd Across Scripture • Genesis 48:15—Jacob calls God “my shepherd all my life long.” • Isaiah 40:11—He gathers lambs in His arms. • Ezekiel 34—God rebukes false shepherds and promises to shepherd His people Himself. • John 10:11—Jesus declares, “I am the good shepherd.” • Revelation 7:17—“The Lamb… will shepherd them and lead them to springs of living water.” Green Pastures and Quiet Waters Ancient travel diaries describe rolling terraces around Bethlehem where winter rains produced lush grass. Archaeologists have uncovered stone cisterns carved into hillsides; shepherds would stop flocks here during the heat. Restoration and Righteous Paths “Restores my soul” conveys reviving a breathless life. Paths were narrow tracks worn into hills; the right one avoided cliffs. Jeremiah 6:16 speaks of “ancient paths” where God leads to rest. The Valley of the Shadow Likely recalling Wadi Qelt, a deep, twisting gorge between Jerusalem and Jericho. Tall walls blocked sunlight, creating long shadows and echoing animal growls. Yet David claims fearless confidence because the Shepherd walks beside him (Isaiah 43:2). Rod and Staff • Rod: offense—striking lions and bears (1 Samuel 17:35). • Staff: defense and direction—lifting a stuck sheep, steering on narrow ledges. Both together picture firm discipline and tender guidance (Hebrews 12:6). Table, Oil, and Cup ANET texts show desert chieftains welcoming travelers with a banquet to pledge protection. • Table: a spread cloth or animal skin on the ground. • Oil: perfumed olive oil cooled sun-burned skin and signaled honor (Luke 7:46). • Overflowing cup: a host poured until liquid rounded the rim—visual shorthand for “More than enough!” Goodness and Mercy Pursue Hebrew radaph means “to chase.” Instead of enemies hunting the believer, God’s goodness and mercy (steadfast love) relentlessly track him every day (Lamentations 3:22–23). Dwelling in the LORD’s House David likely pictured the tabernacle on Mount Zion (2 Samuel 6). Yet the phrase points beyond tents and stones to unbroken communion with God (John 14:2–3). Literary Features and Structure • Two halves: Shepherd imagery (vv. 1–4) shifts to Host imagery (vv. 5–6). • Personal pronouns dominate—“my,” “me,” “I”—showing intimate relationship. • Present tense verbs stress ongoing care. Hebrew Word Highlights • “Shepherd” (ra‛ah): to feed, to tend. • “Want” (chaser): lack, deficiency. • “Shadow of death” (tsalmavet): deep darkness. • “Mercy” (chesed): faithful love, covenant kindness. Archaeological Insights Recent digs in the Judean wilderness reveal sheepfolds—stone circles with a narrow gap. The shepherd lay across the opening at night, literally becoming “the door” (John 10:7). Remains of olive-press installations near Bethlehem illustrate plentiful oil for anointing. Practical Applications for Today 1. Contentment: Knowing the Shepherd’s sufficiency calms constant craving (Philippians 4:11–13). 2. Rest: Busyness yields to intentional pauses by “quiet waters”—Sabbath rhythms, scriptural reflection. 3. Guidance: Regular Bible intake keeps feet on “righteous paths.” 4. Courage: Valleys will come, but fear yields to nearness—pray “You are with me” aloud. 5. Generosity: Overflowing cups prompt believers to host, give, and bless even when critics watch. 6. Hope: Life’s final chapter is not a tomb but a house—an eternal, secure dwelling with the Shepherd-Host. Connections to Jesus the Good Shepherd • Psalm 23’s opening line meets John 10’s “I am the good shepherd.” • “Restores my soul” parallels Matthew 11:28—“I will give you rest.” • The valley finds echo in Gethsemane and Golgotha; Jesus walked it first. • The prepared table anticipates the Lord’s Supper and the marriage supper of the Lamb (Revelation 19:9). • Goodness and mercy chasing believers mirror Mark 16:20—“The Lord worked with them.” Summary Thought From pasture to palace, from valley to banquet, Psalm 23 sings of a Shepherd who never loses a lamb and a Host who never short-serves a guest. In His care, we find everything we need—and more than we can imagine—now and forever. Connections to Additional Scriptures John 10:11-14 Jesus as the Good Shepherd, who lays down His life for the sheep. Philippians 4:19 God's promise to supply all our needs according to His riches in glory. Isaiah 40:11 God's gentle care and guidance as a shepherd. Revelation 7:17 The Lamb as the Shepherd who leads to springs of living water. Teaching Points The Lord as Shepherd The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want. (Psalm 23:1) - This opening verse establishes the central theme of the psalm: God's personal and intimate care for His people. As a shepherd knows his sheep, God knows us individually and meets our needs. Provision and Rest He makes me lie down in green pastures; He leads me beside quiet waters. (Psalm 23:2) - God provides not only for our physical needs but also for our spiritual rest and renewal. Guidance and Righteousness He restores my soul; He guides me in the paths of righteousness for the sake of His name. (Psalm 23:3) - God leads us in ways that align with His character and purposes, restoring our souls and guiding us toward righteousness. Presence in Adversity Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for You are with me; Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me. (Psalm 23:4) - God's presence is a source of comfort and courage, even in the darkest and most challenging times. Abundance and Blessing You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies. You anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows. (Psalm 23:5) - God blesses us abundantly, even in the presence of opposition, signifying His favor and provision. Eternal Security Surely goodness and mercy will follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the LORD forever. (Psalm 23:6) - The psalm concludes with a promise of God's enduring goodness and mercy, culminating in eternal fellowship with Him. Practical Applications Trust in God's Provision Reflect on areas of your life where you need to trust God more fully as your Shepherd, knowing He will provide for your needs. Seek Spiritual Rest Make time for spiritual renewal and rest, allowing God to restore your soul through prayer, Scripture, and worship. Embrace God's Guidance Be attentive to God's leading in your life, seeking His wisdom and direction in your decisions and actions. Find Comfort in God's Presence In times of fear or uncertainty, remind yourself of God's constant presence and draw strength from His promises. Celebrate God's Blessings Acknowledge and give thanks for the ways God has blessed you, even amidst challenges, and share His goodness with others. People 1. The LORD (YHWH) Description: The central figure in Psalm 23, the LORD is depicted as the shepherd who provides, guides, and protects. The Hebrew term used is "YHWH," which is the personal name of God, emphasizing His covenant relationship with His people. The LORD is portrayed as caring and attentive, ensuring that the psalmist lacks nothing and is led beside still waters and into green pastures. 2. The Psalmist (David) Description: The speaker of the psalm, traditionally identified as King David. He is the one who experiences the LORD's guidance and provision. The psalmist expresses trust and confidence in the LORD's care, even in the face of danger or adversity, such as walking through the "valley of the shadow of death." In this psalm, the focus is primarily on the relationship between these two figures, with the LORD as the shepherd and the psalmist as the sheep under His care. The imagery used throughout the psalm highlights themes of provision, guidance, protection, and the assurance of God's presence. Places 1. Green Pastures "He makes me lie down in green pastures." This phrase suggests a place of rest and nourishment. The Hebrew word for "green" (דֶּשֶׁא, deshe) implies fresh, tender grass, symbolizing abundance and peace. 2. Still Waters "He leads me beside quiet waters." The "still waters" or "quiet waters" (מְנֻחוֹת, menuchot) in Hebrew indicate a place of tranquility and refreshment, where the soul can be restored. 3. Paths of Righteousness "He guides me in paths of righteousness for His name’s sake." These "paths" (מַעְגְּלֵי, ma'aglei) refer to the right or just ways, symbolizing moral and spiritual guidance. 4. Valley of the Shadow of Death "Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil." The "valley" (גֵּיא, gei) represents a place of deep darkness or danger, yet it is traversed with confidence due to God's presence. 5. Table "You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies." The "table" (שֻׁלְחָן, shulchan) signifies a place of provision and blessing, even amidst adversaries. 6. House of the LORD "And I will dwell in the house of the LORD forever." The "house" (בֵּית, beit) of the LORD represents a place of eternal fellowship and communion with God, emphasizing security and belonging. Events 1. The Lord as Shepherd "The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want." The psalm begins with the declaration that the LORD (Yahweh) is the shepherd, indicating a personal and caring relationship. The Hebrew word for "shepherd" (רֹעִי, ro'i) implies guidance and provision. 2. Provision of Rest and Nourishment "He makes me lie down in green pastures; He leads me beside quiet waters." The shepherd provides rest and sustenance. "Green pastures" (בִּנְאוֹת דֶּשֶׁא, bin'ot deshe) and "quiet waters" (מֵי מְנֻחוֹת, mei menuchot) symbolize peace and abundance. 3. Restoration of the Soul "He restores my soul; He guides me in the paths of righteousness for His name’s sake." The shepherd restores and revitalizes the soul (נַפְשִׁי, nafshi) and leads in righteous paths, emphasizing moral and spiritual guidance. 4. Protection in the Valley of the Shadow of Death "Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for You are with me; Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me." The presence of the shepherd provides comfort and protection in dangerous or dark times. The "valley of the shadow of death" (גֵּיא צַלְמָוֶת, gei tsalmavet) represents extreme peril. 5. Preparation of a Table in the Presence of Enemies "You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies. You anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows." The shepherd provides abundance and honor even amidst adversaries. Anointing with oil (דִּשַּׁנְתָּ בַשֶּׁמֶן רֹאשִׁי, dishanta vashemen roshi) signifies blessing and consecration. 6. Goodness and Mercy Following "Surely goodness and mercy will follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the LORD forever." The psalm concludes with a promise of continual divine goodness (טוֹב, tov) and mercy (חֶסֶד, chesed), and the assurance of eternal fellowship with the LORD. Lessons from Psalm 23 1. The Lord as Our Shepherd Psalm 23 begins with the comforting declaration, "The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want" (Psalm 23:1). This imagery of God as a shepherd highlights His role as a guide and protector. Just as a shepherd tends to his flock, God provides for our needs and leads us on the right path. Embrace this truth daily, knowing that you are never alone and that your Shepherd is always watching over you. 2. Rest and Renewal "He makes me lie down in green pastures; He leads me beside quiet waters" (Psalm 23:2). In a world that often demands constant activity, God invites us to rest. These green pastures and still waters symbolize peace and restoration. Take time each day to pause, reflect, and recharge in His presence, allowing Him to renew your spirit. 3. Guidance on the Right Path "He restores my soul; He guides me in the paths of righteousness for the sake of His name" (Psalm 23:3). God’s guidance is not just about leading us away from danger but directing us toward righteousness. Trust in His wisdom and let His Word illuminate your path, ensuring that your actions reflect His glory. 4. Courage in the Face of Fear "Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for You are with me" (Psalm 23:4). Life’s challenges can feel overwhelming, but this verse reminds us that God’s presence dispels fear. With Him by our side, we can face any trial with courage and confidence, knowing that His rod and staff are our comfort. 5. Divine Comfort and Protection "Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me" (Psalm 23:4). The rod and staff are tools of protection and guidance. God’s discipline and direction are not burdens but blessings that keep us safe and secure. Embrace His correction as a sign of His love and commitment to your well-being. 6. Abundance in Adversity "You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies" (Psalm 23:5). Even when surrounded by challenges, God provides abundantly. This verse illustrates His ability to bless us in the midst of adversity. Trust in His provision and find joy in His blessings, regardless of your circumstances. 7. Anointing and Overflowing Blessings "You anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows" (Psalm 23:5). Anointing signifies being chosen and set apart for a purpose. God’s blessings are not just sufficient; they are overflowing. Recognize the abundance in your life and use it to bless others, reflecting His generosity and grace. 8. Assurance of Goodness and Mercy "Surely goodness and mercy will follow me all the days of my life" (Psalm 23:6). God’s goodness and mercy are not fleeting; they are constant companions. Live with the assurance that His love and kindness are with you every step of the way, shaping your journey and enriching your life. 9. Eternal Security "And I will dwell in the house of the LORD forever" (Psalm 23:6). This promise of eternal dwelling with God offers profound security. Our ultimate home is with Him, and this assurance should fill us with hope and peace. Let this eternal perspective guide your daily decisions and priorities. 10. Living with Purpose and Peace Psalm 23 encapsulates a life lived under God’s care and direction. Each verse is a reminder of His provision, protection, and promise. By internalizing these truths, you can navigate life with purpose and peace, knowing that your Shepherd is leading you toward His eternal kingdom. Embrace this psalm as a blueprint for a life of faith and fulfillment. Topics 1. The Lord as Shepherd "The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want." (Psalm 23:1) This verse introduces the metaphor of God as a shepherd, a role that implies guidance, provision, and protection. The Hebrew word for "shepherd" is "רֹעִי" (ro'i), emphasizing a personal and caring relationship. 2. Provision and Rest "He makes me lie down in green pastures; He leads me beside quiet waters." (Psalm 23:2) This verse speaks to God's provision of physical and spiritual nourishment. The imagery of "green pastures" and "quiet waters" suggests peace and abundance. 3. Restoration and Guidance "He restores my soul; He guides me in the paths of righteousness for the sake of His name." (Psalm 23:3) God is portrayed as one who restores and revitalizes the soul. The Hebrew word for "restores" is "יְשׁוֹבֵב" (yeshovev), indicating a return to a state of well-being. His guidance in "paths of righteousness" underscores His moral and ethical leadership. 4. Protection in Adversity "Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for You are with me; Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me." (Psalm 23:4) This verse highlights God's protection during life's darkest moments. The "valley of the shadow of death" symbolizes extreme danger or distress. The "rod" and "staff" are tools of a shepherd, representing discipline and support. 5. Abundance and Honor "You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies. You anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows." (Psalm 23:5) God provides abundantly even in the presence of adversaries. The "table" signifies provision and fellowship, while "anointing with oil" is a sign of blessing and honor. The overflowing cup symbolizes abundance. 6. Goodness and Mercy "Surely goodness and mercy will follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the LORD forever." (Psalm 23:6) The psalm concludes with a promise of God's enduring goodness and mercy. The Hebrew word for "mercy" is "חֶסֶד" (chesed), often translated as loving-kindness or steadfast love. The assurance of dwelling in the Lord's house reflects eternal communion with God. Each topic in Psalm 23 reflects a deep trust in God's provision, guidance, and eternal care, resonating with the core beliefs of conservative Christianity. Themes 1. Divine Shepherding "The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want." (Psalm 23:1) The theme of God as a shepherd underscores His role as a caretaker and guide. The Hebrew word for "shepherd" (רֹעִי, ro'i) conveys the idea of one who tends, feeds, and protects the flock, emphasizing God's personal and attentive care for His people. 2. Provision and Rest "He makes me lie down in green pastures; He leads me beside quiet waters." (Psalm 23:2) This theme highlights God's provision of physical and spiritual nourishment. The imagery of "green pastures" and "quiet waters" suggests a place of abundance and peace, where needs are met, and rest is found. 3. Restoration and Guidance "He restores my soul; He guides me in paths of righteousness for His name’s sake." (Psalm 23:3) God is portrayed as one who restores and revitalizes the soul. The Hebrew word for "restores" (יְשׁוֹבֵב, yeshovev) implies bringing back to a state of well-being. His guidance in "paths of righteousness" reflects His commitment to leading His people in moral and ethical living. 4. Protection in Adversity "Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for You are with me; Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me." (Psalm 23:4) This theme emphasizes God's protection and presence during life's darkest moments. The "valley of the shadow of death" symbolizes extreme danger or distress, yet the psalmist expresses confidence in God's comforting presence and protective tools, the "rod" and "staff." 5. Abundant Blessing "You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies. You anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows." (Psalm 23:5) Here, the theme of God's abundant blessing is evident. The preparation of a table and anointing with oil signify honor and abundance, even amidst adversaries. The overflowing cup symbolizes the fullness of God's provision and blessing. 6. Eternal Security "Surely goodness and mercy will follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the LORD forever." (Psalm 23:6) The final theme is the assurance of God's perpetual goodness and mercy. The Hebrew word for "follow" (יִרְדְּפוּנִי, yird'funiy) can also mean "pursue," indicating an active, ongoing presence of God's love. The promise of dwelling in the Lord's house forever speaks to eternal security and communion with God. Prayer Points Thanksgiving for God's Provision Thank God for His faithful provision and care in your life. Guidance and Wisdom Pray for God's guidance in making decisions and walking in righteousness. Comfort in Trials Ask for God's comfort and peace in the midst of difficult circumstances. Gratitude for Blessings Express gratitude for the blessings and abundance God has provided. Hope in Eternal Security Pray for a deeper understanding and assurance of the eternal security we have in Christ. As we meditate on Psalm 23, may we be reminded of the profound peace and assurance that comes from knowing the Lord as our Shepherd, who lovingly guides, provides, and protects us throughout our lives. Answering Tough Questions 1. Psalm 23:1 – How can an all-knowing God “shepherd” someone without visibly intervening in real-world crises? 2. Psalm 23:2 – If God leads believers to “green pastures,” why does widespread suffering and famine persist among the faithful? 3. Psalm 23:4 – How can one “fear no evil” when global catastrophes, diseases, and violence still afflict even the devout? 4. Psalm 23:5 – If God prepares a table for the faithful “in the presence of enemies,” why do many suffer defeat and persecution? 5. Psalm 23:6 – In light of history’s atrocities, how can “goodness and mercy” truly follow believers throughout their lives? Bible Study Discussion Questions 1. How does the shepherd's role in verse 1-2 relate to your understanding of God? 2. How do you relate the phrase "I shall not want" to your own life? 3. How does God lead you to "green pastures" and "quiet waters" in your life? 4. What do you think "paths of righteousness for His name's sake" means? 5. When have you experienced God restoring your soul? 6. How can you apply the concept of fearing no evil in your current circumstances? 7. How does God's rod and staff provide comfort in your life? 8. What does walking "through the valley of the shadow of death" mean to you? 9. What does it mean to you that God prepares a table before you in the presence of your enemies? 10. What does being anointed by God signify in your life? 11. How have you seen your "cup overflow" with blessings? 12. How have you experienced God's goodness and mercy in your life? 13. How does the assurance of dwelling in the house of the Lord forever impact your view of life and death? 14. How can Psalm 23 comfort someone going through a difficult time? 15. How can you apply the lessons of Psalm 23 to your daily life? 16. In what ways do you see God's protection and guidance in your life? 17. How does Psalm 23 encourage you to trust in God? 18. What does the notion of eternal life mean to you as depicted in Psalm 23? 19. How can you use Psalm 23 to foster a deeper relationship with God? 20. How does Psalm 23 inspire you to face your fears and challenges in modern-day living? Bible Hub Chapter Summaries and Bible Study Questions