Daily Devotional - Psalm 23 - "Rest" God Is Our Shepherd

They seemed restless today, agitated.

This one was yelling; that one was being picky. Still another one was wandering off completely.

But then they heard the voice. They felt the gentle nudge of the stick reminding them he was there, that he always took care of them and their needs.

As David guided his wandering sheep back into the flock, he couldn't help but realize that God was the ultimate Shepherd who cared for His people the way David showed concern for the sheep. Feeling inspired, he sat down under a tree, looked out at the flock and started to play and sing.

Psalm 23:1-6

The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want.

God is the One watching over us and looking out for us. There is no need in our lives that He is unable to provide. There is no substitute or source in this world that could possibly meet our spiritual, mental and emotional needs adequately.

He makes me lie down in green pastures.

Sheep don't typically like to rest, and when they do they don't always pick the most suitable places. They may end up in thornbushes, mud or a ditch.

Much too often, we may find ourselves constantly restless and entertained by the world, only to realize that our temporary enjoyment has been anything but restful. Our Good Shepherd knows where the good, peaceful pastures are for our weary souls.

He leads me beside still waters. He restores my soul.

Sheep are afraid of running water. They refuse to stick their muzzles in, so a good shepherd will find puddles or ponds so that their flock can drink.

Consider a raging river with whitewater rapids. The raft shifts to and fro, threatening to capsize and take you with it. The oars went overboard, and you're holding on for dear life. Chaotic.

Now imagine a calm, tranquil lake with an orange sunrise on the horizon. A flock of birds calls to each other as they wake to meet the dawn of a new day.

God is inviting us to that place of serenity and peace, sitting with Him beside the gentle waters and allowing Him to restore calm and stillness to our souls.

He leads me in paths of righteousness for his name's sake.

Shepherds don't wander. They have a specific journey and destination in mind, one that is best for the flock. The sheep don't understand, but they follow the shepherd's voice because they know it and trust it.

We can know and trust Christ's voice (John 10:14). He has a path for us, a path to bring Him glory and to strengthen and sanctify us. His voice is peaceful, kind and loving, and we follow it.

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.

Traveling to new pastures was not always easy for shepherds. They faced rough terrain, bad weather and even threats from wild animals such as lions and bears (1 Samuel 17:34-35). But through the valleys of shadows, the shepherd would gently tap his sheep on the side, reminding them he was still there to guide and protect them.

God's rod and staff are the Holy Spirit and His Word. They comfort us and guide us while we face life's difficult seasons, reminding us that He will never leave us or forsake us (Hebrews 13:5).

You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies; you anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows.

Because of the shepherd's protection, guidance and offering of rest, the sheep could trust him enough to graze in open pastures even when there were dangers surrounding them. He took care of them well enough that all they had to do was eat and rest.

In a home setting, a host would offer his guest an anointing with oil for purification and cleansing (Luke 7:44-46). He would also be sure that his cup was never empty, allowing his guest to relax and rest.

We can rest in God's presence. His Word nourishes us as we find shelter in Him, even as we face opposition and challenges all around us. He will never fail to cleanse us and refresh our souls.

Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life, and I shall dwell in the house of the LORD forever.

We serve a good, good Father, a God who never changes and who always delights in His children. We can rely on His rest and His provision all of our earthly days and into eternity.

Question To Consider

Have you taken time today to meditate on this psalm, resting in the protection, guidance and care of the God who loves you?

Prayer For Today

Lord Jesus, thank You for being my Good Shepherd. You sacrificed Yourself, laying down Your life for me, and You lovingly continue to guide my walk with You while offering me cleansing, nourishment and rest. Help me today to find comfort in You alone, and let Your voice be the loudest and sweetest one I hear. Amen.