Psalms 23

1 [A Psalm by David.] The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not lack.

A psalm of David. Since the Lord is my shepherd, I have everything I need.

2 He makes me lie down in green pastures. He leads me beside still waters.

He gives me rest in green fields. He leads me towards quietly flowing streams.

3 He restores my soul. He guides me in the paths of righteousness for his name's sake.

He revives me. He guides me along the right paths because that's the kind of person he is.

4 Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me. Your rod and your staff, they comfort me.

Even when I walk through the valley dark as death, I'm not afraid of any evil, because you are right there with me; your rod and your staff protect me.

5 You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies. You anoint my head with oil. My cup overflows.

You prepare a banquet for me before my enemies. You honor me by anointing my head with olive oil. My cup is so full it overflows!

6 Surely goodness and loving kindness shall follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the LORD's house forever.

I'm absolutely certain that your goodness and trustworthy love will be with me all through my life, and I will live in the house of the Lord forever.