Psalms 23:1-6
1 The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want.
2 He maketh me to lie down in greena pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters.
3 He restoreth my soul: he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name's sake.
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
5 Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies: thou anointestb my head with oil; my cup runneth over.
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.c
Contents: David sees Jehovah as his good shepherd.
Characters: God, David.
Conclusion: Jehovah is with (Psalms 23:1) under (Psalms 23:2) beside (Psalms 23:2) after (Psalms 23:6) before (Psalms 23:5) and ahead of (Psalms 23:6) all His trusting children. They shall not want for food (Psalms 23:2) drink (Psalms 23:2) strength (Psalms 23:3) guidance (Psalms 23:3) comfort (Psalms 23:4) satisfaction (Psalms 23:5) or life (Psalms 23:6).
Key Word: Shepherd, Psalms 23:1.
Strong Verses: Psalms 23:1; Psalms 23:4.
Striking Facts: The shepherd psalm follows the psalm of the cross. We must by experience know the value of the blood shed on Calvary's cross and see the sword awakened against the Shepherd before we can truly know the sweetness of the Good Shepherd's care. Psa. 22 is the Good Shepherd dying for His sheep. (John 10:11.) Psa. 23 is the Great Shepherd caring for His sheep. (Hebrews 13:20.) Psa. 24 is the Chief Shepherd coming again for His sheep. (1 Peter 5:4.)