Unlimited Possibilities

The 23rd Psalm is by far the best-known and best-loved of all the psalms. Its images of safety, tranquility, and rest transcend all divisions of culture, age, and tradition. May it bring you peace.

The Text

The Twenty-Third Psalm

The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want.
He makes me lie down in green pastures:
he leads me beside the still waters.

He restores my soul:
and leads me
in the paths of righteousness
for His name’s sake.

Yea, though I walk through
the valley of the shadow of death,
I will fear no evil:
for You, my God, are with me;
Your rod and staff comfort me.

You prepare a table before me
in the presence of my enemies:
You anoint my head with oil;
and my cup runneth over.

Surely goodness and mercy
will follow me all the days of my life:
and I will dwell
in the house of the Lord for ever.

Photo of a flower

The 23rd Psalm
retold by Deborah Beach Giordano

The Shepherd

A retelling of Psalm 23
    from the sheep's viewpoint

He has a Voice
that fills my soul
with delight;
I recognize it
instantly
and come running
when I hear his call.

My beloved shepherd
speaks to me
tenderly;
he knows my name
and my needs,
his compassion
knows no bounds.

He leads me
gently
through the valleys,
across the mountains,
and along the winding roads,
to bring me
safely where I belong.

He protects
and shelters me
in sunshine
and shadow;
when lightning flashes,
thunder roars,
and wolves howl.

He will lift me up
if I stumble or fall,
and if I wander off
and get stuck or snared
or lost
he will search anxiously
until I’m found again.

He is a Light
shining in the darkness
so I can always
find my way;
and I shall never fear,
for He is ever-faithful,
a true and trusted friend.

He leads me
to soft green meadows
watered abundantly
by clear, fresh streams,
my heart grows lighter
my spirit rejoices;
and I frolic like a lamb.

leaping lamb

He blesses my days,
and keeps watch
throughout my nights;
my whole life will be filled
with love and kindness
and I will dwell
with my beloved Shepherd forever.