Psalm 23 The Lord is My Shepherd

This is probably the most popular psalm of them all. It uses the image of a shepherd to describe God and his relationship with his people. Though the sheep in mind throughout the psalm is Israel, David personalizes his relationship with God. God is a shepherd to Israel, but he is also "my shepherd." It is impossible to claim a relationship with God Almighty unless I am able to express my unique relationship with him.

"I shall not want." My shepherd is my provider. He takes care of all my needs. I may not get all I want, but I most certainly will get all that I need. My shepherd provides food, water, and also care for the soul. My shepherd leads me and guides me on the paths he has chosen for me. He knows where he is going. All I need to do is follow and I am guaranteed to find all I need.

And even when those paths may be full of darkness lurking with danger, I can trust that my shepherd will protect me and get me through safely. A shepherd uses a rod as a defensive weapon against bandits and wild beasts when they try to steal or devour a sheep. The staff is a tool designed to keep the sheep together and avoid anyone going astray. It has a hook at the end that the shepherd can use to place it around the neck and pull the sheep to its place.

The Lord is my Shepherd. He will protect me even in the most dangerous circumstances of life. He fights for me. He looks out for me. Knowing that God is by my side even in the darkest hours of life is a great comfort to me. It brings peace to my mind and gives hope to my soul.

Father, My Shepherd, thank you for your provision and protection. I rest in comfort and peace under your care. May I always follow your lead all the days of my life. Amen.