He Restores My Soul; He Leads Me

He restores my soul: The tender care of the shepherd described in the previous verse had its intended effect. David’s soul was restored by the figurative green pastures and still waters the shepherd brought him to.

Restores has the idea of the rescue of a lost one. “It may picture the straying sheep brought back.” (Kidner)

“In Hebrew the words ‘restores my soul’ can mean ‘brings me to repentance’ (or conversion).” (Boice)

“‘He restoreth my soul.’ He restores it to its original purity, that was now grown foul and black with sin; for also, what good would it be to have ‘green’ pastures and a black soul!” (Baker, cited in Spurgeon)

He leads me: The shepherd was a guide. The sheep didn’t need to know where the green pastures or still waters were; all it needed to know was where the shepherd was. Likewise, the LORD would guide David to what he needed.

In the paths of righteousness: The leadership of the shepherd did not only comfort and restore David; He also guides His sheep into righteousness. God’s guidance of David had a moral aspect.

“They are led in ‘the path of righteousness’, in the way of holy obedience. [Obstacles] are removed; they are strengthened to walk and run in the paths of God’s commandments.” (Horne)

For His name’s sake: The shepherd guides the sheep with an overarching view to the credit and glory of the shepherd’s own name.

“To display the glory of his grace, and not on account of any merit in me. God’s motives of conduct towards the children of men are derived from the perfections and goodness of his own nature.” (Clarke)

Based on the Enduring Word Bible Commentary by David Guzik.