✨ Psalm 23 (King James Version)
A Psalm of David
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The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want.
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He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters.
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He restoreth my soul: he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name’s sake.
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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.
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Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies: thou anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over.
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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.
🕊️ Explanation and Meaning
Verse 1: “The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want.”
David, once a shepherd himself, compares God to a loving and protective shepherd.
Just as a shepherd provides for and protects his sheep, God provides everything His people need—guidance, safety, and sustenance.
✨ Meaning: Trust in God removes the sense of “lack.” He is enough.
Verse 2: “He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters.”
“Green pastures” symbolize peace, nourishment, and abundance; “still waters” represent calm and rest.
✨ Meaning: God brings inner peace and refreshment to our souls, even amid life’s chaos.
Verse 3: “He restoreth my soul: he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name’s sake.”
When we are weary, discouraged, or lost, God restores our spirit and directs us toward what is right and good—not for our glory, but for His.
✨ Meaning: God renews our strength and moral clarity, keeping us aligned with His purpose.
Verse 4: “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.”
This verse expresses courage and faith even in life’s darkest moments. The “rod” and “staff” are symbols of both protection and guidance.
✨ Meaning: Even in suffering, death, or danger, God’s presence gives us peace and courage.
Verse 5: “Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies: thou anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over.”
A “table” prepared by God represents victory and abundance—even when surrounded by challenges. The “oil” symbolizes blessing and being chosen, while a “cup that runs over” signifies overflowing joy and grace.
✨ Meaning: God blesses and honors us openly, even before those who oppose us.
Verse 6: “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.”
This is David’s ultimate expression of faith: that God’s kindness and mercy will pursue him always, leading to eternal communion with Him.
✨ Meaning: God’s love is constant—both in this life and forever in eternity.
🌿 Summary
Psalm 23 is a song of trust and assurance in God’s care.
It paints a picture of a journey with the Shepherd—from peaceful pastures, through dark valleys, to eternal dwelling with God. It comforts believers by reminding them that God provides, protects, restores, and leads—always with love.