(23:1) The Lord is Our Shepherd - In describing the Lord as a shepherd, David was writing out of his own experience; he had spent his early years caring for sheep (1 Samuel 16:10-11). Sheep are completely dependent on their shepherd for provision, guidance, and protection. The New Testament refers to Jesus as our Good Shepherd (see John 10:11; Hebrews 13:20; 1 Peter. 5:4). And if the lord is the Good Shepherd, we are his sheep--not frightened, passive animals, but obedient followers, wise enough to follow the one who will lead us in the right places and the right ways. This psalm does not focus on the passive qualities of sheep but on the shepherd who protects and guides them. When you recognize the Good Shepherd, follow him!

(23:2-3) Our Shepherd Guides Us - When we allow God, our Shepherd, to guide us, we have contentment and refreshment. When we choose to sin, however, we go our own way and cannot blame God for the environment we create for ourselves. Our Shepherd knows the "green pastures" and "still waters" that will restore us. We will reach these places only by following him obediently. Rebelling against the Shepherd's leading is actually rebelling against our own best interests. Remember this the next time you are tempted to go your own way rather than the Shepherd's way.

(23:4) Death - Death casts a frightening shadow over us because we are entirely helpless in its presence. We can struggle with other enemies pain, depression, disease, and injury--but our strength and courage cannot overcome death. In terms of this life, death has the final word. Only one person can walk with us through death's dark valley and bring us safely to the other side--the God of life, our Shepherd. Because life is uncertain, we should follow this Shepherd, who offers us eternal comfort and light in the darkness.

(23:5-6) God Protects - In ancient Middle Eastern culture, at a feast or banquet it was customary to anoint guests with fragrant oil. Hosts were also expected to protect their guests at all costs. God offers the protection of a host even when enemies surround us. In the final scene of this psalm, we see that believers will dwell with the Lord. God, the perfect shepherd and host, promises to guide and protect us throughout our lives and to welcome us as special guests in his house--forever.