Old Testament
Psalms 23
Overview
Psalm 23 is the beloved psalm of confident trust, in which David pictures the LORD as his personal shepherd who provides, guides, and protects. Green pastures and still waters give way to the dark valley, where the psalmist fears no evil because the Shepherd is with him; then the imagery shifts to a host who spreads a table before enemies and anoints the guest with oil. It ends with the settled assurance that goodness and mercy will follow him all his days and that he will dwell in the LORD's house forever.
1A Psalm by David. Yahweh is my shepherd; I shall lack nothing.
2He makes me lie down in green pastures. He leads me beside still waters.
3He restores my soul. He guides me in the paths of righteousness for his name’s sake.
4Even 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.
5You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies. You anoint my head with oil. My cup runs over.
6Surely goodness and loving kindness shall follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in Yahweh’s house forever.