Psalm 23:1 The Lord is my shepherd; I have all that I need.
Lord Jesus, you are my generous shepherd—my very Good Shepherd. You give me everything I need, even when that includes things I don’t want. All I’ll need today is you, plus what you choose to give me.
2 He lets me rest in green meadows; he leads me beside peaceful streams.
As long as you are there, even the most difficult places are like green meadows. And in the desert seasons and parched places, you quench my thirst and give me a peace impossible to find anywhere else.
3 He renews my strength. He guides me along right paths, bringing honor to his name.
By your grace I’m learning to “fake it” less, and boast in my weaknesses more. When I come to the end of my strength, wits, and rope, you graciously meet me there. Thank you for marking my path and determining my steps.
4 Even when I walk through the darkest valley, I will not be afraid, for you are close beside me. Your rod and your staff protect and comfort me.
You never promised us a stress-free life or a pain-less journey Home. But you have promised never to leave or forsake us—even in the darkest valley. That’s all we really need to know—that you’re close by and that you love us, and that you won’t let anything happen to us outside of your perfect plan for our lives.
5 You prepare a feast for me in the presence of my enemies. You honor me by anointing my head with oil. My cup overflows with blessings.
You’re taking us to the feast of all feasts—the Wedding Feast of the Lamb. But in the gospel, you’re already our portion, banquet and feast—our nourishment and satisfaction. Though enemies threaten, you anoint our lives with your grace and Spirit, and cause our cups to overflow for the benefit of others.
6 Surely your goodness and unfailing love will pursue me all the days of my life, and I will live in the house of the Lord forever.
Absolutely nothing will keep me out of heaven; and, just as certainly, nothing can possibly separate me from your love. Thank you for your promise to never stop desiring, pursuing, and caring for us. So very Amen I pray, in your tender and powerful name.
