Journey of the SoulSample

A Meditation of Psalm 23 

Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me.

There are seasons when our Good Shepherd needs to lead us through the dark valleys. Jesus promises, “Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you . . . I am with you always, even to the end of the age . . . So fear not, little flock of sheep, it is your Father’s good pleasure to give you His kingdom.”

Your rod and your staff comfort me.

Our Savior uses His rod to fight off our enemies, to guide His sheep and to free us when we become ensnared.

You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies.

We sit at the table and eat because the Lord is with us; it’s a place of community and celebration—even with enemies around us. As we receive the Lord’s forgiveness, we are strengthened to forgive those who mistreat us and be at peace (Colossians 3:13).

You anoint my head with oil. My cup overflows.

Shepherd Jesus heals our wounds and anoints us for ministry as empathetic healers who understand and have compassion for others who are hurting or struggling.

Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life.

At the beginning of this journey we were like children and the Good Shepherd was like a directive parent: He made us to lie down, and He led us to walk. Then, in the middle of our journey, we found ourselves in a dark valley trial. We felt as if the Lord had left us but then realized that He was with us, present during our hard times.

Now, as we near the end of our journey, goodness and mercy follow us. The Spirit of Jesus affirms that we’re growing up because our heart seeks its true path of righteousness. Still, at times we need our Shepherd to whisper from behind, “This is the way; walk in it” (Isaiah 30:21).

And I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever.

With the psalmist we pray, “Blessed are those who dwell in your house, O Lord” (Psalm 84:4). We’re learning to appreciate our intimacy and union with the Father and Son as we go about our life. In every part of the journey the loving Spirit is before us, beside us, and behind us. Amen.

What portion of today’s Psalm spoke to you most? During times of wandering or darkness, have you received grace from God? Recognize God’s presence as the Good Shepherd in those moments.