Psalms
Summary
Psalm 23 is perhaps the most famous and beloved passage in the entire Bible, offering a comforting vision of the LORD as the Good Shepherd. David uses pastoral imagery to describe God's intimate care: leading him to "green pastures" and "still waters," and restoring his soul. Even in the "valley of the shadow of death," the psalmist fears no evil because God's "rod and staff" provide comfort. The final verses shift to a banquet setting, where God prepares a table in the face of enemies and "anoints my head with oil." It is an eternal testimony of God’s unfailing provision and love.
The LORD is my shepherd [1]; I shall not want.
He makes me lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside quiet waters,
he refreshes my soul. He guides me along the right paths for his name’s sake.
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.
You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies. You anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows.
Surely your goodness and love will follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the LORD for ever.