Psalm 23
The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want.
He makes me to lie down in green pastures;
He leads me beside the still waters.
He restores my soul;
He leads 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 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 runs over.
Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me
All the days of my life;
And I will dwell in the house of the Lord
Forever.
Psalm 23 is a well-known passage from the Bible, specifically from the Book of Psalms in the Old Testament. It is a psalm attributed to King David, and it is often referred to as the "Shepherd's Psalm" or the "Psalm of David."
Now, to get the text of Psalm 23, you have a few options:
1. Physical Bible: If you have a physical copy of the Bible, you can open it to the Book of Psalms (which is located in the Old Testament) and find Psalm 23. The Psalms are numbered, so you should be able to locate it easily.
2. Online Bible Sources: There are numerous websites and online platforms that offer access to the Bible, including specific passages like Psalm 23. You can use search engines to find reliable and reputable Bible websites. Some popular websites include BibleGateway.com, Bible.com, and YouVersion.com. Once on the website, you can use the search function to look for Psalm 23.
3. Bible Apps: Many mobile applications provide access to the Bible. You can download a Bible app such as YouVersion, Olive Tree, or Blue Letter Bible on your smartphone or tablet. These apps usually have a search function that allows you to quickly find specific passages, including Psalm 23.
Remember, reading Psalm 23 is more than just obtaining the words—it carries deep spiritual meaning for many people. Therefore, take the time to reflect on the message of the psalm and its significance to your life.
Psalm 23 is a well-known and beloved passage in the Bible. It is a psalm of David, expressing his trust in the Lord's care and provision. The psalm can be divided into six key parts:
1. Opening line: "The LORD is my shepherd, I lack nothing." In this line, David acknowledges God as his shepherd. This metaphor emphasizes God's role as a provider and protector for His people.
2. Verse 2: "He makes me lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside quiet waters." David describes how God provides rest and refreshment for his soul. Just as a shepherd leads his sheep to green pastures and peaceful waters, God cares for David's physical and spiritual needs.
3. Verse 3: "he refreshes my soul. He guides me along the right paths for his name's sake." Here, David expresses how God renews and restores his inner being. God's guidance ensures that David walks on the right path, not only for his own benefit but also for the sake of God's reputation and glory.
4. Verse 4: "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." In this verse, David acknowledges that even in the midst of difficult and dangerous situations, he will not be afraid because God is with him. The rod and staff represent the shepherd's tools of protection and guidance, providing comfort and assurance.
5. Verse 5: "You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies. You anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows." David describes how God blesses him abundantly, providing for his needs and blessing him in the presence of his enemies. The anointing with oil symbolizes God's favor and blessings upon David.
6. Verse 6: "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." David concludes the psalm by affirming his belief in God's constant goodness and love. He trusts that God's presence and care will continue throughout his entire life, and he looks forward to eternal dwelling in God's house.
Psalm 23 serves as a reminder of God's faithfulness, provision, and guidance in the lives of His people, offering assurance and comfort to those who trust in Him.