The Lord is my shepherd;
I have all that I need.
He lets me rest in green meadows;
he leads me beside peaceful streams.
He renews my strength.
He guides me along right paths,
bringing honor to his name.
Psalm 23:1-3 (NLT)
In verses 1-3 of Psalm 23, the metaphor of a shepherd is used to describe God's relationship with his people. The shepherd provides for, protects, and guides his sheep, and the psalmist—King David—sees God as his shepherd, providing for and guiding him.
For the remainder of today’s message, let’s focus on us as God’s sheep—as used in Psalm 23—not as a popular, present day metaphor of sheep—those who are blindly led by a broken government and imperfect politicians.
The first verse, "The Lord is my shepherd; I have all that I need," expresses the psalmist's confidence in God's provision. He believes that God will give him everything he needs, and he will not lack anything.
The second verse, "He lets me rest in green meadows; he leads me beside peaceful streams," describes the shepherd's care for his sheep. The shepherd leads the sheep to places where they can rest and find nourishment, and the psalmist sees God as providing him with rest and spiritual refreshment.

It is important to take a few moments each day to go outside and look around. Look at all of the things created by God! We can have joy when we simply get outside and see all that God made.
The third verse, "He renews my strength. He guides me along right paths, bringing honor to his name," speaks of the shepherd's role in guiding the sheep. The shepherd leads the sheep along the right paths, and the psalmist sees God as guiding him in the way of righteousness, or right living, for the sake of God's reputation. “The LORD says, “I will guide you along the best pathway for your life. I will advise you and watch over you.” (Psalm 32:8 NLT)
This world, with its almost constant distractions, entices us. Before we know it, we’ve wandered away from the Lord. And though sheep tend to wander, they will not return on their own. That’s why our Shepherd has to go out and find us.
—Faith
Prayer of the Day
Dear Lord, I come before you today with a heart full of gratitude for all that you have made. The beauty and wonder of your creation is beyond measure. From the smallest creatures to the vast expanse of the universe, every part of your creation is a testament to your power, wisdom, and love.
I thank you for the gift of life and the many blessings you have bestowed upon me. I thank you for the air I breathe, the food I eat, the water I drink, and the shelter I have. I thank you for the people in my life who bring joy, love, and companionship.
I thank you for the opportunity to experience the wonders of your creation. For the sun that rises each morning, the stars that fill the night sky, the mountains, the oceans, the forests, and all the creatures that inhabit them. I thank you for the changing of the seasons, the warmth of summer, the colors of autumn, the cold of winter, and the renewal of spring.
I thank you for the gift of your Son, Jesus Christ, who came to earth to show us your love and to save us from our sins. I thank you for the gift of the Holy Spirit, who guides and strengthens us in our daily lives.
I thank you for the gift of your Word, the Bible, which teaches us about you and your plan for our lives. I thank you for the gift of prayer, which allows us to communicate with you and to share our deepest thoughts and desires.
Lord, I thank you for all that you have made. Your creation is a constant reminder of your power, your wisdom, and your love. May I always be mindful of your blessings and may I always give thanks to you for all that you have done.
In Jesus' name, Amen.