Along with many others, I learned Psalm 23 by heart in my youth. I am so glad I did. I frequently repeat it to myself in my heart, especially when having a disturbed night. It always ministers to me, strengthens me and leads me into grateful worship. On one occasion I volunteered for afternoon car park duty at Stoneleigh Bible Camp. A number of cars had been interfered with that were parked in a field at quite a distance from the main venue. It was a three-hour stint, I was on my own, and I wasn't looking forward to it. But my Shepherd was with me and I spent the whole time meditating on my favourite Psalm. Amazing! It remains a very precious memory.

It seems most likely that David wrote Psalm 23 in the latter part of his life, so he is looking back as well as describing his current experience. He was himself a dedicated shepherd; one who delivered his sheep from the paw of the lion and the bear. A shepherd lives with his flock, in intimate contact. He spends day and night with them; he is everything to them. They have no other resource as carer, guide, healer and protector. His life is bound up with theirs. His zeal for them is passionate and courageous. God is his people's Shepherd, who will never leave them or give up on them! And each of us can say: Lord Jesus you are my personal Good Shepherd!

What follows is basically the GNT version into which I have woven, or added, parts of the NIV, NLT, the Message and the Amplified Bible where the terminology enriches understanding. I have had to make a few changes of my own to make it flow, but the meaning has not been changed. I have also incorporated a few explanations from commentaries.

THE GOOD SHEPHERD: IN MY LIFE & SERVICE

"The Lord is my shepherd; I have everything I need. He beds me down and lets me – even makes me – stop and rest in lush meadows. He finds me peaceful pools to drink from. He renews my strength and lets me catch my breath. He restores my soul; my very life. He guides me in the right paths, sending me in the right direction – paths of righteousness – for his name's sake – just as he promised – [the "way everlasting" of Ps. 139:24] bringing honour to his name. Even when I walk through the deepest and darkest valley – including that of the shadow of death – I will not be afraid – I will fear no evil – for you are close beside me every step of the way. Your rod – the cudgel that hangs from your belt ready to be snatched up to ward off wild animals and thieves – and your crook – which guides me away from danger and faithfully disciplines me when I rebel – protect and comfort me, making me feel totally secure" (Ps. 23:1-4).

THE GOOD FATHER: IN MY RELATIONSHIP WITH HIM

"You prepare a banquet for me [made possible by the cross and prefiguring the Marriage Feast of the Lamb], right in front of my enemies [when the devil intensifies his attacks and his accusations come fast and savage]. You welcome me as [your child], honoured guest and closest friend. You revive my drooping head and fill my cup to the brim with blessings. I know that your goodness, beauty and unfailing love will chase after me and be with me throughout my life [I am not pursued by my sins, my guilt and your judgement, but by your merciful kindness and encouragements] and your home will be my home all the days of my life, and I will live in the House of the Lord forever" (Ps. 23:5-6).