Psalm 23: Our Good Shepherd

​The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. 
2        He makes me lie down in green pastures. 
       He leads me beside still waters. 
3        He restores my soul. 
       He leads me in paths of righteousness 
for his name’s sake. 
4    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. 
5    You prepare a table before me 
in the presence of my enemies; 
       you anoint my head with oil; 
my cup overflows. 
6    Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me 
all the days of my life, 
       and I shall dwell in the house of the Lord
forever. 
 
 
Meditation
Jesus is our good shepherd who secures the eternal promises of God by giving Himself to His enemies so believers can be welcomed as family, forever. 
 
Psalm 23 was written by a shepherd who became a king and reveals the heart of our King who is the God Shepherd (John 10:11). The image of the Lord as shepherd is a picture of God’s ideal king (Ezekiel 34:1-10), an anticipation finding fulfillment in Jesus who is our chief shepherd (1 Peter 5:4). Our good Shepherd is a merciful King.
 
Three images drive the Psalm- Pasture, Banquet, and Temple: 
 
In the pasture, our Shepherd gives confidence by promising we will never be in want (1). Christians know God will provide, guide, protect, and restore.  
 
The banquet reveals the care and rule of our king: As Host of the banquet, the provision of green pastures enriches preparation of a table, with such bounty the cups overflow. Protection in the valley of death is escalated to peace in the presence of enemies. The restoration by quiet waters is enriched to anointing with oil.
 
The Temple is the the climax of this song of trust, eternal realities of God’s covenant promises. God’s goodness and mercy will always with believers as we dwell in His presence forever (6).
 
Jesus is the fullness of these images. The green pastures of Jesus’ grace invite us to rest. The banquet table of abundant life overflows into love for everyone, even enemies. And Jesus’ body is the Temple, His Spirit inside of His people forever and ever. Amen!
 
Richly Dwelling
-What stands out to you about this Psalm, especially the images used to cement your confidence in God’s covenant care?
 
-When is it difficult for you to embrace the truths of this Psalm from your heart?
 
-How does Jesus and the reality of His finished work fulfilling these images both strengthen your faith and move your to faithfulness?
 
Key Verse
6    Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life, and I shall dwell in the house of the Lordforever.