The Shepherd's Psalm, Paraphrased/Expanded
(Psalm 23, KJV)
“The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want.”
The Lord is my Shepherd — that meaning: He watches over me,
Just like an earthly shepherd who tends his flock protectively.
He’s my Provider, my Sustainer, He takes care of my needs,
Hence why I’ve put my trust in Him, for my Shepherd wisely leads.
“He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside still waters.”
He’s like an oasis amidst trying times, in whom I find rest,
For He renews my strength, heartens with His Word, and sees I’m blessed.
He provides times of relief, and sends angels to assist me,
And He lets me know that He’s there midst trials and adversity.
“He restoreth my soul: he leadeth me in paths of righteousness for his names sake.”
He leads me along paths of righteousness, and unfailingly,
Along paths (that though they may well seem dark) He knows are best for me.
Yes, His faithful and true guidance are a sure testimony
That reveal His character, wisdom and creativity.
“Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for
thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me..”
During times of persecution, or threats to my life, He is there,
Thus, I’m conscious of His presence, have His word that He’ll be near.
His rod gives me protection, and His staff support on which to lean,
And when Satan shows up, my Shepherd, His rod and staff stand between.
“Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies: thou anointest
my head with oil; my cup runneth over.”
Though enemies surround me, taunt me, or scheme most evilly,
He keeps them at a distance, and He continues to bless me.
There is joy amidst my trials, peace, and even prosperity,
Thus, my heart’s full of gratitude, for I’m loved unconditionally.
“Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I
well dwell in the house of the Lord for ever”
Oh yes, His goodness, grace and mercy surround and follow me,
Hence why I long to be with Him all throughout eternity.
Yes, I look forward to that day when with my Lord I will dwell,
And with a song in my heart, be ever singing, “All is well.”
How I long to sit around that table that is being prepared,
Communing with my Shepherd who His love for me has declared.
And all throughout eternity I’ll stay under His watch care,
Living in a Paradise that He’s looking forward to share.
By Lance Landall