1 The Lord is my shepherd; I have all that I need.
Dear Lord Jesus, you are my shepherd, my very Good Shepherd. You give me everything I need, and more than I want. All I need in life is you, plus what you choose to give me.
2 He lets me rest in green meadows; he leads me beside peaceful streams.
Even the most difficult places in life are like green meadows as long as you are there; and in the desert seasons of my life, and the drought like conditions of my heart, you quench my thirst and give me a peace I can’t get anywhere else.
3 He renews my strength. He guides me along right paths, bringing honor to his name.
By your grace I’ve learned to pretend less and boast in my weaknesses more; for when I come to the end of my strength, wits, and rope, you always meet me there—granting me rest in my weariness, and strength for my tired body and heart. Thank you for marking my path and determining my steps.
4 Even when I walk through the darkest valley, I will not be afraid, for you are close beside me. Your rod and your staff protect and comfort me.
Jesus, you never promised us a stress-free life or an easy journey “home”; but you have promised never to leave or forsake us—even in the darkest valley. That’s all I really need to know—that you’re close and that you love me, and that you won’t let anything happen to me outside of your perfect plan for my life.
5 You prepare a feast for me in the presence of my enemies. You honor me by anointing my head with oil. My cup overflows with blessings.
Jesus, you’re taking us to the feast of all feasts—the wedding feast of the Lamb; but long before that Day, you, yourself are my portion, banquet and feast—my nourishment and satisfaction. Though enemies threaten, you feed me, anoint my life with your grace and Spirit, and cause my cup to spill over with blessings, for the benefit of others.
6 Surely your goodness and unfailing love will pursue me all the days of my life, and I will live in the house of the Lord forever.
Absolutely nothing will keep me out of heaven; and, just as certainly, nothing can possibly separate me from your goodness and unfailing love. Until the Day I long for more than any other arrives, I rest in your love and trust in your grace. Thank you for your promise to never stop desiring, pursuing, and caring for me. So very Amen I pray, in your glorious and powerful name.
