Psalm 23:1
A Psalm by David. The LORD is my shepherd; I shall lack nothing.
World English Bible, updated 66-book edition (engwebp). Text provenance and public-domain notice.
Read the full chapter: Psalms 23
1 A Psalm by David. The LORD is my shepherd; I shall lack nothing.
2 He makes me lie down in green pastures. He leads me beside still waters.
3 He restores my soul. He guides me in the paths of righteousness for his name’s sake.
4 Even 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.
5 You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies. You anoint my head with oil. My cup runs over.
6 Surely goodness and loving kindness shall follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the LORD’s house forever.
Context for study
Psalm 23 opens with the image of the LORD as a shepherd. Verses 2–3 develop that image through rest, water, restoration, and guidance. Verse 4 still describes a dangerous valley, so the confidence of verse 1 belongs alongside the promise of presence in trouble, rather than a life without danger.
A question to explore
Which actions in verses 2–4 explain what the shepherd provides?