Psalm 23 – The Lord is My Shepherd

Psalm 23 – The Lord is My Shepherd

Certainly, moving is a transition that takes time and patience.  As Steve and I settle into a new community, a dear friend suggested that I meditate on Psalm 23 – The Lord is My Shepherd.  The following are my thoughts and reflections on this beautiful psalm as I’ve asked the Lord to guide me in this unchartered season.

The Lord is My Shepherd; I shall not want.

In Christ alone, my hope is found. https://youtu.be/m_063OI38RQ?si=973-jLA0SjuVrSKO

Jesus is my Good Shepherd.  He is faithful and true.  I can trust Him to lead me in the right direction, to provide for my every need, and to keep me from wandering astray.

He makes me lie down in green pastures.  He leads me beside still waters.

Our front yard is green and lush and bathed in the glory of the morning sun.  In our backyard, the Willamette River gently flows.  The river brings peace and calm to my anxious heart.  Here, I can breathe deeply and slowly, as I rest in God’s presence.  

He restores my soul.

Steve’s body needs restoration and healing as he’s battled twenty plus years of chronic pain and migraines.  Thank You, Lord, for this opportunity for renewal in his life.  And perhaps, unbeknownst to me, my soul is being restored as well. 

The Good Shepherd leads me in paths of righteousness for His name’s sake.

I’m praying for direction – for ministry, for connection, for ways to use the gifts You have given me.  I desire to serve and come alongside others.  Lead me, Lord.  Guide me in ways that bring honor to Your name.

Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death…

You promise to walk with me through the heartache and troubles of this world – not that I won’t experience them.  With Your help, I will not remain in the valley but pass through it – strengthened and upheld by Your righteous right hand.

I will fear no evil, for You are with me. Your rod and staff, they comfort me.

Lord, You tell me repeatedly, “Do not be afraid.” Obviously, You know how easily fear grips my heart. But thankfully, Your presence calms my soul. I know that I’m not alone because You protect and guide me. You keep me close and steady on the right path, and keep me from veering off course.

The Good Shepherd prepares a table before me in the presence of my enemies.

You make a way where there seems to be none — even allowing me to eat and interact with those who oppose me. Jesus, You break the chains of division and open a space for grace and  reconciliation at the table – where a shared meal unifies.

You anoint my head with oil, my cup overflows.

Lord, you have blessed me abundantly.
“Blessed shall you be in the city and blessed shall you be in the country.” — Deuteronomy 28:3
Truly, You have anointed my life with good things, and my cup overflows with gratitude.

Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life.

Because I belong to Jesus, my inheritance is secure. He surrounds me as He goes before me, behind me, and beside me.

Inhale: Your goodness and mercy follow me.
Exhale: All the days of my life.

And I shall dwell in the house of the Lord forever.

Most assuredly, heaven is my permanent home address, where I will dwell with the Lord forever.  No packing or moving is ever needed because I am already HOME with You.

Prayer:

Thank you, Lord, for this beautiful psalm which has provided comfort in this season of change. Thank You for tenderly caring for me, leading me beside quiet waters, and restoring my soul.  Amen.

Questions:

1. Is there a passage in Scripture that you turn to for strength and encouragement?
2. What verse from Psalm 23 speaks most deeply to you?  Why?
3. How has the Good Shepherd revealed Himself to you today?