Old Testament
Psalms 23
Overview
Psalm 23 is the beloved psalm of confident trust, in which David pictures the LORD as his personal shepherd who provides, guides, and protects. Green pastures and still waters give way to the dark valley, where the psalmist fears no evil because the Shepherd is with him; then the imagery shifts to a host who spreads a table before enemies and anoints the guest with oil. It ends with the settled assurance that goodness and mercy will follow him all his days and that he will dwell in the LORD's house forever.
1A Psalm of David. The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want.
2He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters.
3He restoreth my soul: he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name's sake.
4Yea, 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.
5Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies: thou anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over.
6Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the LORD for ever.