1 The LORD is my shepherd, I lack nothing.
Yahweh, the Holy Covenant Keeper, Lord over all, –You are the One who watches over me and desires a relationship with me. I lack nothing, because You, Lord are everything. You, the Creator knows Your creation.
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.
There are times when I need to be made to stop, to lie down, to rest and take note of all that You have provided. Your provision is ample, abundant, perfect. Taking time out to rest I can realize that the path that You lead me on is best, that going my own way only leads to more trouble. My very being is refreshed, renewed. Your reputation is at stake as I take this journey; all that is done is done for my good and Your glory.
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.
My relationship with You does not mean I will not encounter those who would destroy me, or cause me harm. Yet, even if my life is forfeited, there is no fear in death, because You have conquered it. Death is no longer the specter lurking in the shadows of my fear, but a door to Your very presence. And even there, You accompany me, I enter not alone. During these most difficult days, it is the rod of Your correction, Your Word and Holy Spirit that convict me of my sin that helps me stay on the path that You have ordained. It is Your staff of encouragement that calls me to Your side when I have fallen. Your love knows no bounds, Your comfort is beyond understanding. Fear melts in Your presence.
5 You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies. You anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows.
You have already made the preparations I need for the journey. To my surprise, You place them in sight of the very ones who would destroy me. You are not bothered by their taunts, You are God. You provide in their midst, so that the testimony of Your greatness and provision is in the very face of those that vainly attempt to destroy it. You have set me apart to Yourself; You have restored and refreshed my spirit. The joy of Your presence overflows on those around me.
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.
Your nature and character will permeate my thoughts and mind; they will rule my actions. The greatest privilege will be that of spending eternity in Your presence, where You live and reign eternally.
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