Devotion: Often considered one of the most popular Psalms, Psalm 23 is a beautiful testament to God’s guidance and provision, renewal and protection, and blessing. But there is something about the imagery of this Psalm that just sticks with you. It simply feels like peace. As you read through it, I want to encourage you to not rush through it. Rather, try to pain the picture in your mind of what King David was describing as he wrote it.
The Lord is my shepherd, I lack nothing.
He makes me lie down in green pastures,
he leads me beside quiet waters,
he refreshes my soul.
He guides me along the right paths
for his name’s sake.
Even though I walk
through the darkest valley,
I will fear no evil,
for you are with me;
your rod and your staff,
they comfort me.
You prepare a table before me
in the presence of my enemies.
You anoint my head with oil;
my cup overflows.
Surely your goodness and love will follow me
all the days of my life,
and I will dwell in the house of the Lord
forever.
Green pastures, quiet waters, and a shepherd who guides you. There is something about this picture that just feels calm. It feels like peace. And we can embrace that peace when we embrace Jesus. When we allow Him to guide us and lead us, when we set our minds on things above, when we are aware of His presence all around us, we can be enveloped in His still, quiet peace.
Reflect:
- What part of this Psalm most resonates with you?
- Listen to Still Water by Leanna Crawford- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v1IaQvgPsfA
