A Reflection on Psalm 23

No psalm is better known or more loved than 23: The Lord is my shepherd. Many of our ancestors would have known this psalm by heart and been able to recite it from memory. We use it in this time of prayer to calm our hearts, our thoughts, and our mind, remembering the kindness and guidance of the Lord, even when we might feel far away.

As you prepare to hear the Psalm read, become still…


Notice your breathing… the breath of life God has given you, sustaining you with purpose, to be here for this very moment…


Begin to reflect on God’s gentle presence with you here and now…

As you listen, enjoy the rhythm and beauty of the language. Go gently with this time of prayer, savouring each word and phrase…

The LORD is my shepherd, I shall not want.
He makes me lie down in green pastures;
he leads me beside still waters;
he restores my soul.
He leads me in right paths
for his name’s sake.
Even though I walk through the darkest valley,
I 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 goodness and mercy shall follow me
all the days of my life,
and I shall dwell in the house of the LORD
my whole life long.




Let’s take this psalm a phrase at a time.

The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want.

There are so many things that I do want. There are so many things I wish were different. Can I tell you Lord, my shepherd? What do I want from you?

He makes me lie down in green pastures;
he leads me beside still waters;

It would seem that rests are a part of the rules. What helps me to rest? What gives me some respite from the concerns of life? What is your invitation to me here?


he restores my soul…

God, you are at work in my life. I’m a work in progress for sure, but your love leads to restoration. Help me to see your good work, and receive your love.


He leads me in right paths
for his name’s sake.

Jesus, you call your disciples to love God, neighbour and self. Lead me towards this love.


What’s the most loving path I feel able to take today? Help me to walk that path.


Even though I walk through the darkest valley,
I fear no evil;
for you are with me;
your rod and your staff—
they comfort me.

I don’t have to pretend that life is easy. Sometimes, I do walk through the valley of the shadow of death. Life is hard. I often do feel afraid.


Perhaps I don’t have to fear my fear quite as much. Though I may find it difficult to feel your presence, I shall trust that you are there, walking with me, by my side. Lord, I believe; help my unbelief.

You prepare a table before me
in the presence of my enemies…

There is no one you do not love, oh Lord. In the midst of difficult circumstances and the pain and suffering that I sometimes experience, God sustains me. Help me to see the table that has been laid before me today. Help me to receive your sustaining grace. Those things in life that get in the way of love, those things you will overcome in time.


you anoint my head with oil;
my cup overflows


For strength, you anoint me. For joy, you fill my cup. If I do not feel strong, be my strength. If joy feels distant, keep it safe for me.

Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me
all the days of my life


You will ensure that I am brought back to you, Lord. My destination is you.


and I shall dwell in the house of the LORD
my whole life long…


You will bring me home. Because you love me, you shall bring me home.

Our Father who art in heaven,
Hallowed be thy Name.
Thy kingdom come.
Thy will be done,
On earth as it is in heaven.
Give us today our daily bread.
And forgive us our trespasses,
As we forgive those who trespass against us.
And lead us not into temptation,
But deliver us from evil.
Amen.