The Psalms of Jesusنموونە

Jesus Our Shepherd

Psalm 23 begins with a simple but profound statement: “The Lord is my shepherd; I have what I need” (Psalm 23:1 CSB). Shepherds do not follow sheep; they lead them. David shows us that if God is our Shepherd, then He determines the path, not us. That is why David says, “He makes me lie down in green pastures” (Psalm 23:2 CSB). A shepherd only makes sheep do something when they would not choose it themselves. In the same way, God often leads us into things that are uncomfortable or unwanted, but ultimately for our good.

David also writes, “He leads me beside quiet waters” (Psalm 23:2 CSB). Sheep need water, but they are easily frightened by fast-moving streams. A good shepherd will slow the water or find a calm place so the sheep can safely drink. God meets us in the same way. He does not wait for us to be stronger before He helps us. He meets us in our weakness, at our pace, and leads us patiently.

Then David says, “He renews my life; he leads me along the right paths for his name’s sake. Even when I go through the darkest valley, I fear no danger, for you are with me” (Psalm 23:3–4 CSB). These verses belong together.

The right path, the one God leads us on, sometimes goes straight through dark valleys. Following Jesus does not mean avoiding suffering. It means we are never alone in it. God does not send us into the valley. He walks with us through it.

In verse 5, David changes the picture: “You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies; you anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows” (Psalm 23:5 CSB). God does not promise to remove every enemy or difficult circumstance.

He promises His presence and His provision in the middle of them. That is why David can end the psalm with confidence: “Only goodness and faithful love will pursue me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the Lord as long as I live” (Psalm 23:6 CSB).

The New Testament shows us who this Shepherd is. “He protects his flock like a shepherd; he gathers the lambs in his arms” (Isaiah 40:11 CSB). Jesus says, “I am the good shepherd. I know my own, and my own know me… I lay down my life for the sheep” (John 10:14–15 CSB).

Peter writes, “You were like sheep going astray, but you have now returned to the Shepherd and Overseer of your souls” (1 Peter 2:25 CSB). Psalm 23 is not just poetic comfort. It is a picture of Jesus. He leads us, restores us, and walks with us through the valley.

Jesus is the good shepherd who leads us home.

Reflection Question: Where is God leading you into something you would not naturally choose? How does knowing Jesus is your Shepherd help you trust Him in that place?

Prayer: Father, thank You for being my Shepherd. Forgive me when I resist Your leading or doubt Your goodness. Jesus, thank you for laying down your life so I could be brought home. Holy Spirit, help me trust that even in dark valleys, you are with me and You are good. Lead me, restore me, and teach me to follow you. Amen.