Psalm 23

Psalm 23

Because

The Lord is my Shepherd

My Father-figure, my guide,

I shall not want.

I shall not lack anything – for the Lord will provide all I need.

He maketh me to lie down in green pastures,

He gives sweet rest and comfort in Him.

He leadeth me beside the still waters.

He calms my heart with the refreshing water of His Word.

He restoreth my soul.

Where I have been broken – He healed, and heals.

Where I had lost touch with Him, He brought me back.

He leadeth me in the paths of righteousness

He keeps me from sin and leads me in the way I should go,

as a father does for His son, and as a Shepherd guides His sheep.

For His name’s sake.

So that I cannot take any pride in my own righteousness, but that in all I do,

My Shepherd would receive all glory.

Yea, though I walk through the valley

The dark, lonesome valley

Of the Shadow of Death

Though death threatens my very being,

I will fear no evil, for Thou art with me.

Because my Shepherd leads, I have no reason to fear for my life.

Thy rod and thy staff, they comfort me.

As I learn discipline from my Shepherd, I am comforted and assured of His love.

Thou preparest a table before me

Always giving and delighting the sheep You care for,

In the presence of mine enemies

So that they will acknowledge the greatness and majesty of You, my Shepherd.

My cup runneth over.

You never cease to lavish your abundant grace upon me.

Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me

On this weary path, Your kindness and gentle patience encompass me wherever I may be

All the days of my life

The good days, and the bad days

And I will dwell in the house of the Lord

In the Good Shepherd’s green pastures

Forever.

Amen. May it be.