How to Understand Psalm 23

Read and study the 23rd Psalm-- and Be mindful of God's still small voice: The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not want. He makes me lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside quiet waters, He restores my soul. He guides me in paths of righteousness for his name’s sake. Truly, 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. You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies. You anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows. Surely goodness and love will follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever."

Take it phrase by phrase. Consider each line.

Think of the implications to you and your sphere of influence for life, both mountain top and the darkest valley. One example of meaning is given: "The Lord is my Shepherd" -- That involves a one-on-one relationship, as an individual -- not just a number in a flock! "I shall not want" -- That's the source for your needs: your Shepherd supplies the way, truth and the life! "He maketh me to lie down in green pastures" -- That's splendid contentment -- plenty of rest! "He leadeth me beside the still waters" -- That's cool, peaceful refreshment! "He restoreth my soul" -- That's provision for revitalization and healing! "He leadeth me in the paths of righteousness" -- That's leadership and guidance in following God's will! "For His namesake" -- That gives a higher purpose for life! "Truly, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death" -- That's about testing in the darkest valley, even through death! "I will fear no evil" -- That's knowing you are protected even at your lowest hour! "For Thou art with me" -- That's the constant faithfulness of The Shepherd! "Thy rod and Thy staff they comfort me" -- That's God's protection against the enemies! "Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies" -- That's assurance of support and hope in danger! "Thou annointest my head with oil" -- That's care, dedication and consecration! "My cup runneth over" -- That's His abundance flowing to you and out to others! "Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life" -- That's the blessing and power of grace, through faith remembering "God is Love," not just words! "And I will dwell in the house of the Lord" -- That's home and security in the Lord's provision/Heaven! "Forever." -- That's now and always -- for eternity!

Decide what is most valuable to you: Is it just: "What you have" in your life? Is it more: "Who you have" in your life?

Be available to God's will to walk in Biblical concepts.

Seek God while He may be found. Which means after you get yourself in trouble -- but better yet -- seek Him beforehand.

Seek scriptural wisdom and knowledge which does not ridicule faith -- plus always listen to your better judgment (not your careless, angry or silly side) for serious matters; believe Jesus that He will never leave you, but that He sends comfort and guidance by the Holy Spirit.