Daily devotional · February 21
The Shepherd Walks With Me
“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 the paths of righteousness for the sake of His name. 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. You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies. You anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows. Surely goodness and mercy will follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the LORD forever.”
Psalm 23 is loved because it speaks in the first person: he leads me, he restores me, you are with me. David had been a shepherd, and he knew that sheep depend on their shepherd for food, water, rest and protection. The psalm does not claim life is free of dark valleys. It says that in them, the shepherd is there, and his rod and staff bring comfort. The last lines picture goodness and mercy following us, like faithful companions rather than pursuers to fear. This psalm is often read at funerals, but it is meant for living, too. Today, read it slowly out loud, once, and notice the line that speaks most to your current need. Carry that line with you, repeating it whenever you feel afraid or alone, and thank the Shepherd for walking beside you.
Prayer
Good Shepherd, lead me today and walk with me through every valley. Amen.