Psalm 23
A psalm of David
This is the best known and most popular of all 150 psalms. A psalm of King David, it reflects his experience as a shepherd who cared for his sheep. God cares for us far more than we ever dreamed . He prepares a table before us. He anoints our head with oil. He restores our soul. Because of the Twenty-third Psalm’s comforting words of God’s protection in the face of death, it is frequently read at funerals. Here is a beautiful example of the power of poetry and metaphor to express spiritual truths.
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The LORD is my shepherd;
I shall not want. He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters. He restoreth my soul: he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name's sake. Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me. Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies: thou anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over. Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the LORD for ever. |