December 2023 Day 18 BASIC SCRIPTURE
BASIC SCRIPTURE: PSALM 23:1-6
The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want.
2 He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters.
3 He restoreth my soul: he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name’s sake.
4 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.
5 Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies: thou anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over.
6 Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the Lord for ever.
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Here is Psalm 23:1-6 from the New International Version (NIV):
“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.”
This beloved Psalm, often recited in times of comfort and difficulty, illustrates a deep and personal relationship between God and His people, using the imagery of a shepherd and his sheep.
- The Shepherd’s Care: The psalmist acknowledges God as a caring and attentive shepherd, providing for all needs and ensuring rest and refreshment for the soul.
- Guidance and Protection: God leads along righteous paths, even in challenging times, providing comfort and assurance of His presence, dispelling fear and offering solace.
- Divine Provision: God is the provider, preparing a table in the presence of adversaries, anointing with blessings, and overflowing cups, signifying abundance and favor.
- Eternal Assurance: The psalm concludes with a declaration of God’s eternal goodness and love, promising His faithful presence throughout life’s journey and the ultimate dwelling in His house forever.
Psalm 23 encapsulates the profound care, guidance, provision, and everlasting presence of God in the lives of His people, offering comfort, assurance, and trust in His faithful love and provision.