Psalm 23 - The Lord Is My Shepherd
Psalm 23 uses the images of a shepherd, a host, and a home to express trust in God's care. The speaker enters a dark valley and faces enemies, yet says that God's presence removes fear.
Key Ideas
- Care and guidance
- Presence in danger
- Hospitality and belonging
Text
A Psalm of David. The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want.
He maketh me to lie down in green pastures; He leadeth me beside the still waters.
He restoreth my soul; He guideth me in straight paths for His name's sake.
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.
Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies; Thou hast anointed my head with oil; my cup runneth over.
Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life; And I shall dwell in the house of the LORD for ever.
Questions and Answers
What is the main idea of Psalm 23?
The psalm teaches trust in God's care without denying that fear, danger, and loss exist.
How does the psalm's language change in the dark valley?
The speaker shifts from describing God to addressing God directly: “You are with me.” The danger remains, but the relationship to it changes.
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