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A Guide to Psalm 23

The Shepherd's Psalm — Prayers & Reflections

Verse 1
"The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want."

Prayer

Lord, thank You for being my Shepherd—watchful, present, and faithful. Teach me to trust in Your care. Quiet every place in me that still fears not having what I need.

Reflection Questions

  • Where am I most tempted to believe I am on my own?
  • What do I feel I'm "lacking," and how might God want to meet that need?
  • How is God inviting me to trust His provision today?
Verse 2
"He makes me lie down in green pastures. He leads me beside still waters."

Prayer

Good Shepherd, lead me into Your rest. Settle my thoughts and guide me to the places that nourish and restore me. Help me receive rest as Your gift, not something I must earn.

Reflection Questions

  • What in my life feels hurried, noisy, or restless?
  • What does restful "green pasture" look like for me right now?
  • Where is God inviting me to slow down so He can restore me?
Verse 3
"He restores my soul. He leads me in paths of righteousness for his name's sake."

Prayer

Restore the tired, tangled places within me, Lord. Renew my perspective, my courage, and my hope. Lead me in the right way—not for my recognition, but for Your glory and purposes.

Reflection Questions

  • What part of my soul is most in need of restoration?
  • What path am I on that needs realignment with God's ways?
  • How is God inviting me to walk in obedience for His name's sake?
Verse 4
"Even 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."

Prayer

Lord, in every shadowed valley, remind me You are near. Let Your presence be my courage. Use Your rod to protect me and Your staff to guide me. Surround my heart with the comfort of Your companionship.

Reflection Questions

  • What "valley" am I currently walking through?
  • How has God shown His presence to me in past valleys?
  • What fears do I need to name before God so His comfort can meet them?
Verse 5
"You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies; You anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows."

Prayer

Father, thank You for providing, honoring, and sustaining me even when circumstances feel opposed. Anoint me afresh with Your Spirit. Let my life overflow with gratitude, peace, and generosity.

Reflection Questions

  • What opposition, pressure, or tension am I facing right now?
  • How has God been preparing a "table" for me even in difficult spaces?
  • Where do I see overflow—signs of God's goodness already at work?
Verse 6
"Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life, and I shall dwell in the house of the LORD forever."

Prayer

Lord, let Your goodness and mercy not only follow me, but shape me. Anchor my heart in the promise that I belong to You—now, in every tomorrow, and forever. Teach me to live with eternal perspective today.

Reflection Questions

  • Where do I notice God's goodness pursuing me lately?
  • How might God be inviting me to trust His mercy in a deeper way?
  • What does "dwelling with the Lord" look like in my daily life?