When I used to go to church regularly, the 23rd Psalm was repeated every Sunday as part of the worship service. Looking back on those times, I recall standing there, repeating the words…but not really taking in the true meaning. It is one thing to read your Bible; it is quite another to take those words in and understand them and determine how they apply to your life.

As you know, I read my Bible nightly. And I have ventured into the Book of Psalms and came across the 23rd Psalms a couple of nights ago and the meaning has attached itself to me in a new way. Maybe because I have released control of my life to God and am following him where he leads me to, or maybe it is because I’m older and a bit wiser…whatever the case, the words of this Psalm bring me comfort and assure me that I am never alone and am blessed. I offer these words to you on this Sunday morning…

Psalm 23

1 The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want.
2 He makes me lie down in green pastures.
He leads me beside still waters.
3 He restores my soul.
He leads me in paths of righteousness
for his name’s sake.

4 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.

5 You prepare a table before me
in the presence of my enemies;
you anoint my head with oil;
my cup overflows.
6 Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me
all the days of my life,
and I shall dwell in the house of the LORD
forever.