“The LORD is my Shepherd” is the beginning of the popular and well-known 23rd Psalm. And it signifies a deeply personal relationship where God knows His sheep by their name and provides for their well-being, comfort, and happiness.
This Psalm was written by King David. In it he portrays God as the Great Shepherd who readily provides for His “sheep.” David regards himself as a sheep who is in need of sustenance, protection, provision, and strength.
1 My Shepherd is the LORD in heaven. And I lack absolutely nothing.
2 He generously provides spiritual counsel and guidance for me from day to day. I am assured by Him of perfect peace and rest since He leads me beside the deep silence and calm of refreshing verdant waters. As a result, I can be confident of peace and rest.
2 He makes me lie down in green pastures, signifying His divine guidance, spiritual nourishment, and also the assurance of safety and care. Green pastures are a place of abundant fresh nutritious food. Thus I can lie down in contentment after I am fed. And then I am led beside the deep silence and calm of refreshing verdant life-giving waters.
3 He restores my soul when at times I may become weary, or lack spiritual vitality. This brings about renewed vibrancy, joy, peace, and interest that I enjoy living the Christian life. It also gives glory to God.
4 Although at times I may walk through the valley of despair and hopelessness, there is absolutely no need to fear because my Shepherd’s protective guidance and support brings me back to comfort, safety and closeness. He uses His rod to defend me and His staff to gently direct me. God’s word states, ”the path of the righteous is like the light of dawn, which shines brighter and brighter until full day”(Proverbs 4:18).
5 My Shepherd prepares a table before me even in the presence of my foes. This signifies that I am chosen, and consecrated for comfort during times of anxiety, unease or sorrow. It also means He is taking care of me even when danger is close at hand. For this reason I will lack nothing. As a loving and gracious Shepherd, He anoints my head with oil to prepare, sustain and bring joy into my life. As a result, my cup will never run dry because He consistently overflows it with loving kindness, provision, protection, and peace.
6 My Shepherd’s goodness and great mercy are guaranteed to be with me as long as I live. And until that special day dawns and the shadows flee away when I reach the Celestial City called heaven to spend eternity there with my God and my Savior.
This is NOT the original Psalm as it appears in the Bible. It is adapted to share my personal views of what it means to me as a true Christian. I trust it will be spiritually inspiring to you.