According to Time magazine, the most popular song in the world is the Disney anthem, “It’s a Small World.” It was written by the Sherman Brothers whom Walt Disney told, “I need one song that can be easily translated into many languages and be played as a round.” But if you were asked to name the most popular Psalm in the world, you would probably answer: Psalm 23. Even in our post-Christian society, most people can quote the opening line, “The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not want.”
Psalm 23 portrays God in two roles, as shepherd and host. As shepherd, the Lord provides for the needs of His people. David declares, “I lack nothing” (v. 1). It does not mean he gets whatever he wants; it means the Lord can and will provide everything he needs. In a barren climate, the Lord leads His sheep to “green pastures” and “quiet waters” (v. 1). This consistent care and provision led David to have a deep trust in the Lord. Even when the Lord led him through the “darkest valley,” he was not afraid (v. 4). As one commentator put it, “The dark valley . . . is as truly one of his ‘right paths’ as are the green pastures—a fact that takes much of the sting out of any ordeal.” In any situation the Lord is there to guide with His shepherd’s tools: a staff and a rod.
In verse 5, the image shifts, and God is pictured as a gracious host. The Lord invites David to enjoy His hospitality even in the presence of his enemies (v. 5). As a good host, the Lord makes sure that His guest has an anointed head and a full cup (v. 5). David responds with gratitude, confessing that the Lord’s “goodness and love” will pursue him throughout his life. He was confident that he would live with God in His presence forever (v. 6).
Pray with Us
As we study the beloved Psalm 23 today, we can be at peace in God’s presence, assured of His eternal love and protection. Come to Him in prayer and praise Him for His salvation and His work of grace in your life.
BY Ryan Cook
Dr. Ryan Cook has taught at Moody Bible Institute since 2012. He earned his bachelor of arts in Bible and Theology from Moody and his master of arts in Old Testament from Grand Rapids Theological Seminary. He has worked in Christian education and served as a pastor in Michigan for seven years. During his time as a professor at Moody, he earned his doctorate from Asbury Theological Seminary. He now lives with his wife, Ashley, and their three children in the Chicagoland area.