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Psalm 23  
A psalm of David.

The LORD is my shepherd, I lack nothing. He makes me lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside quiet waters, he refreshes my soul. He guides me along the right paths for his name’s sake. Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me. You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies. You anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows. Surely your goodness and love will follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the LORD forever.

Because the Lord cares for me like a shepherd cares for his sheep, I have everything I could ever want…everything I will ever need. He nourishes me with His word. He quenches my spiritual thirst. He brings calmness over my anxious heart. He refreshes my soul with His presence. He escorts me on paths headed in the right direction, headed for the right destination.

The path is not always smooth. Sometimes ominous dark storm clouds hang low in the sky. The rains come down in blowing sheets and the lightning strikes all around me. But even in the midst of the storm my Shepherd stays right by my side whispering, “Don’t worry. The storm will be over soon.” And right there in the valley He lays out a spread so we can eat and laugh and enjoy rich fellowship together. My enemies are all around me but I don’t care. My Shepherd is by my side. He will always protect me.

My Shepherd anoints my head with oil treating me…me!… as His honored guest. His overflowing goodness to me cannot be contained.  He will never leave me. He will be with me all of my life. And then one glorious day…He will usher me into eternity.

Father, thank You for being my Shepherd. In Jesus’ name. Amen.