Illustration of one joyful child glowing in vibrant color at the center of a vast crowd of hundreds of people sketched in soft grayscale, illustrating Psalm 23's promise that the LORD, our Shepherd, knows and cares for each of us personally though we are one among many.

Psalm 23

The LORD Is My Shepherd

God would jump over a million people just to protect you.

This is one of the most loved psalms of all time! It tells us that God is like a caring shepherd and we are like His sheep. A good shepherd leads his sheep to green grass and calm water, keeps them safe from danger, and never leaves them alone.

  1. 1The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want.
  2. 2He makes me lie down in green pastures; He leads me beside quiet waters.
  3. 3He restores my soul; He guides me in the paths of righteousness for the sake of His name.
  4. 4Even 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. 5You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies. You anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows.
  6. 6Surely goodness and mercy will follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the LORD forever.

What it means

Just like a good shepherd cares for every single sheep — finding them water, green grass, and keeping them safe from danger — God takes care of you every single day. You never have to worry because He is always with you.

A little prayer

Lord, thank You for being my shepherd. You give me everything I need, You walk with me through scary places, and Your goodness follows me everywhere. I am so glad I belong to You. Amen.

Scripture from the Berean Standard Bible (BSB)