Psalm 23:1–6

Bible Studies for Life 
Director of Ministry Training Institute, Samford University

The Shelter of God’s Presence

Psalm 23:1–6

Few passages stir up more emotions than the 23rd Psalm. It is perhaps the most widely quoted and read section of Scripture. For most Christians it has been dedicated to memory. We should not let our familiarity with the Psalm override the profound impact its meaning can have on our daily life. As David writes the passage he reflects on a difficult time in his life. David lived in exile as King Saul tried to kill him. The passage reveals God as Shepherd and Host.

God is with me to guide and provide what I need. (1–3)

David begins the Psalm with “The Lord” or “Yahweh.” It is interesting to note he begins and ends the Psalm with the powerful name of Yahweh. David understood the role of the shepherd. He was called out by Samuel from the sheep (1 Sam. 16:11) as God’s anointed leader for Israel. The relationship between shepherd and sheep is indeed personal and providential. The title of shepherd was given to kings, especially David (2 Sam. 5:2; 7:7), and the Messiah who was to come (Ezek. 34:23–24; Mic. 5:4). Jesus identified Himself as the Good Shepherd (John 10:11). When David spoke of Yahweh as his Shepherd he thought of Him not only as his Provider and Protector but also as his King.

With Yahweh, David was “lacking nothing.” As the passage is framed in the context of David’s hiding from those trying to kill him, he was in need of shelter, protection, food and water yet in Yahweh he lacked nothing. David recognized God as one who “leads me in the paths of righteousness.” Solomon reminded us of this promise in Proverbs 3:5–6, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him and He will direct your paths.”

God is present with me even in difficult circumstances. (4–5)

The key word of this section is the word “through.” David believed that though he was faced with a valley situation, he would walk through it. The shepherd would lead the sheep through the difficulties. How does a Christian overcome the valleys of life? The key is found in verse 4, “You are with me. Your rod and staff comfort me.” The word used here “nakham” refers to comforting and consoling. It is the awareness of the presence of the shepherd that keep the sheep moving through the dangerous valleys in their journey.

The indwelling Holy Spirit often reminds us we are not alone. We are not to be overwhelmed by the fears of the valleys, especially the valley of the shadow of death. Shadows do not have the ability to hurt anyone. Through Christ, the Victor of the grave, we shall not fear death. It has become a mere shadow.

Verse 5 reveals God as the great Host. To sit as a guest at the table of a host was to be assured of food, housing, fellowship and protection. The table prepared in the presence of David’s enemies was the Host’s public announcement to them not to attempt to harm David in any way.

Dwelling in God’s loving presence can be a constant in my life. (6)

Goodness and mercy shall follow (pursue) me. David uses two significant words, “radaf” (violent pursuit) and “tov vakhesed” (goodness and faithfulness). The Hebrew word “radaf” usually refers to an enemy pursuing for the sake of destroying. Yet here it refers to goodness and mercy pursuing David so as to bless him.  “I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever.” David could not have been speaking of the temple of God because it was not built yet. Rather he is referring to the security of God’s eternal presence. Though the dangers of life pursue, this passage reminds us that God pursues us even more.