Lesson 5: Psalms 23:1
The Blueprint — The Verse
The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want.
Memorization Practice
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King James Version (KJV) — Public Domain.
The Context — The History
is attributed to DavidDavid is Israel’s second king — a shepherd, warrior, poet, and the central human figure in the Messianic line. Scripture presents him as “a man after God’s own heart,” whose life reveals covenant loyalty, repentance, worship, and the promise of an everlasting throne. More, who spent his youth as a shepherd before becoming Israel's king. Ancient Near Eastern shepherds provided protection, guidance, and provision — a powerful image for God's care.
The Narrative — The Lead-Up
This psalm opens the collection's most beloved pastoral poem. DavidDavid is Israel’s second king — a shepherd, warrior, poet, and the central human figure in the Messianic line. Scripture presents him as “a man after God’s own heart,” whose life reveals covenant loyalty, repentance, worship, and the promise of an everlasting throne. More moves from green pastures and still waters through dark valleys to a table prepared before enemies, ending in the house of the LORD forever.
The Echo — Follow-on Verses
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He makes me lie down in green pastures. He leads me beside still waters.
Shown in World English Bible (WEB).
Read the verse immediately after this lesson () to continue the passage.
Discussion
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When have you experienced God as your shepherd?
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What does it mean to 'lack nothing' in a material world?
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How does this psalm speak to seasons of fear or loss?
