The Shepherd and His Names: Finding God in Psalm 23නියැදිය

Jehovah-Rohi, Jehovah-Jireh, Jehovah-Shalom, Jehovah-Rophe - “He leads me in the paths of righteousness for His Name’s sake” (Psalm 23:3b).

The Right Path

Have you ever wondered if you're on the right path in life? Psalm 23:3b reassures us that God, as our Shepherd (Jehovah-Rohi), is always guiding us along the right paths—ones that lead to righteousness and reflect His goodness. These are not just "correct" paths, but ones filled with His blessings and purpose. The journey isn’t always easy, but when we trust Him, we can be sure we’re headed in the best direction.

God’s leading also reveals Him as Jehovah-Jireh, “The Lord Who Provides.” Sometimes, His path takes us through situations that seem impossible—like when Jesus told His disciples to feed thousands with just five loaves and two fish (Mark 6). Their logical minds couldn’t see a way, but when they trusted Jesus’ instructions, they witnessed an incredible miracle. God’s provision often comes when we step out in faith, even when things don’t make sense.

And what about those moments when life feels chaotic? That’s where Jehovah-Shalom, “The Lord Is Peace,” comes in. In that same chapter of Mark, Jesus sent His disciples across the sea, knowing a storm was coming. When the wind and waves became overwhelming, Jesus appeared, walking on water, and said, “It is I; do not be afraid.” His presence alone was enough to bring peace. Trusting God’s path doesn’t mean there won’t be storms, but it does mean we don’t have to be afraid in the middle of them.

Then there’s Jehovah-Rophe, “The Lord Who Heals.” Just like a shepherd carefully tends to a wounded or lost sheep, God restores us when we’re weary or broken. Think about Elijah after his intense confrontation with the prophets of Baal—he was completely drained, but God didn’t leave him there. Instead, He provided food, rest, and encouragement, renewing Elijah’s strength to continue. In the same way, God heals our hearts, minds, and spirits so we can keep moving forward.

The right path isn’t always the easiest or the most obvious, but when we follow where God leads, we find His guidance, provision, peace, and healing along the way. Sometimes that means letting go of our own plans and trusting that His way is truly best. When we do, we experience a life filled with deeper faith, greater joy, and the unshakable assurance that we are exactly where we’re meant to be—with our Shepherd leading the way.