1 PSALM 23 The L , the Psalmist’s Shepherd. A Psalm of David. The Lis my Shepherd [to feed, to guide and to shield me],I shall not want.
2 He lets me lie down in green pastures;He leads me beside the stillandquiet waters.
3 He refreshesandrestores my soul (life);He leads me in the paths of righteousnessfor His name’s sake.
4 Even though I walk through the [sunless]Or valley of deep darkness.valley of the shadow of death,I fear no evil, for You are with me;Your rod [to protect] and Your staff [to guide], they comfortandconsole me.
5 You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies.You have anointedandrefreshed my head withIn ancient times it was customary in hot climates for a host to provide his guest with olive oil to put on his head. The Lord blesses and anoints His believers with the Holy Spirit, whom oil symbolizes, to prepare them for His service.oil;My cup overflows.
6 Surely goodness and mercyandunfailing love shall follow me all the days of my life,And I shall dwell forever [throughout all my days] in the houseandin the presence of the L.