Psalm 23

1 The Lord is my shepherd, I lack nothing. 2 He makes me lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside quiet waters,3 he refreshes my soul. He guides me along the right paths for his name’s sake.4 Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me. 5 You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies. You anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows.6 Surely your goodness and love will follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever.

Reflection:

In this passage, we immediately think that “quiet waters” means serenity, a trouble free environment, where peace rules and you can spend time alone with God. But the passage from David takes us quickly to the scenario of the darkest valley, in the presence of enemies, while still the same confidence and comfort remain. What is your “quiet waters?” Is it an escape from problems or just finding solitude? Perhaps David is showing us that the real quiet waters is independent of the surroundings, but being in the presence and relationship with God. Now that would be magnificent place to be!

Response:

Let’s thank God that He is the One who shepherds us - by and into His presence - at all times and in all circumstances. Let us declare this truth of Psalm 23 over our lives and walk with Him - in His wonderful presence - today.