Translations
Original
Notes
Compare Psalm 19:7; The Law of the LORD is perfect, reviving the soul.
The Lord guides by:
rescuing his people from evil (Psalm 23:4–5; see 31:3),
bringing them back to himself (Psalms 5:8; 61:2),
caring for his people (Psalms 48:14; 139:10),
ruling his people (Psalm 67:4),
counseling his people (Psalm 73:24),
protecting his people (Psalms 78:53; 107:30; 143:11), and
instructing them in wisdom (Psalm 27:11; see Proverbs 4:11).
The Lord’s name guarantees the relationship. He protects his reputation against any claims of abandoning his people or allowing them to sin (see Psalms 25:11; 31:3; 106:8; 143:11).
People in the ancient Near East commonly viewed their rulers as shepherds.
This psalm, which expresses trust and confidence in the Lord, has been a favorite of God's people for generations. It assures us of God's presence during difficult times. It brings to mind images of the Good Shepherd (Psalm 23:1–3; see Ezekiel 34:12; John 10:11) and the messianic banquet (Psalm 23:5–6; see Isaiah 25:6; Revelation 19:9).
This series of psalms shows a journey from confidence and commitment (Psalms 20–21), through anguish and abandonment (Psalm 22), and finally to comfort, insight, and hope (Psalms 23–24).
These psalms develop the importance of:
God's care as a shepherd (Psalms 23:1; 28:9),
God's guidance (Psalms 23:2–3; 25:5; 27:11),
God's goodness (Psalms 23:6; 25:7–8; 27:13), and
living in his house (Psalms 23:6; 26:8; 27:4, 8).
David God’s Name on His Temple Spirit Empowerment The Shepherd
Parallels
Glossary
David Ezekiel, Book of Hebrew Language Music Psalms, Book of Shepherd
Topics
Blessing: Spiritual, from God Emotional Healing Faith: Exemplified God: Guide God: Providence of Jesus, the Christ: Shepherd, Jesus the True: He Guides Refreshing Restoration Retreats Righteousness: Saints are Led in the Paths of Testimony: Religious, Exemplified the Shepherd Christ: His Sheep: He Guides