Psalm 23 With Commentary

Psalm 23

A psalm of David.

1 The Lord is my shepherd, I lack nothing.
2    He makes me lie down in green pastures,
he leads me beside quiet waters,
3    he refreshes my soul.
He guides me along the right paths
   for his name’s sake.
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.

5 You prepare a table before me
   in the presence of my enemies.
You anoint my head with oil;
   my cup overflows.
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.

Commentary

Psalm 23 portrays God as a good shepherd. This title has been given to God because a shepherd always leads his sheep individually to safety. To put it more simply, a shepherd is just like a caretaker. So, additionally, God has been conferred this title by the psalmist.

The psalmist highlights that even though he is going through the darkest times, he draws comfort in God being with him. This psalm points to the rod and staff of God. These are God's symbols of righteousness and authority.

The author is convinced that God's love will follow him throughout his life, and he will finally dwell in the house of God forever.

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Jamie Larson
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