The Lord is My Shepherd

“The LORD is my shepherd;

I shall not want.”

{Psalm 23:1}

The following is a poetic paraphrase of Psalm 23. Many Christians know this psalm well, yet I think our familiarity with it can hinder our ability to see its profound beauty. I love how David begins the psalm by saying simply, “The LORD is…” Before telling of what his shepherd does, he first meditates on the truth that the LORD is—and this alone is enough to satisfy him. His needs are met and his soul finds rest solely because the LORD is his shepherd. May our hearts likewise be enthralled with our Good Shepherd and may we so walk peacefully and joyfully through this life—both now and in eternity.

The LORD is my shepherd; I’m never in need.

By pure and still waters I follow His lead.

In luscious, green pastures I often am found,

For my loving, good shepherd there makes me lie down.

When I’m with my shepherd, I always am whole,

For He ever so gently restoreth my soul.

As I walk with my shepherd, I never feel shame;

We walk paths of righteousness for the sake of His name.

Though the valley of darkness we often will see,

I never fear evil, for He is with me.

I experience comfort through His staff and His rod—

I’m held close by my shepherd, my Savior and God.

When I’m faced with my enemies, You a table prepare.

You anoint with sweet oil my head and my hair.

You’re a God of abundance—now this my soul knows;

I’m in awe as I see that my cup overflows.

Surely goodness and mercy shall both follow me

In every new day of this life that I see.

And then I will dwell in the house of the Lord

With my faithful, good shepherd forevermore.