---

Rest in the Shepherd’s Care

“The Lord is my shepherd, I lack nothing.” – Psalm 23:1 (NIV)

In a world that constantly tells us we need more—more success, more stuff, more strength—Psalm 23 begins with a profound counter-message: “I lack nothing.” Why? Because the Lord is our Shepherd. He isn’t distant or disinterested. He is personal, present, and deeply invested in our well-being.

When life feels overwhelming, God offers rest: green pastures for our weary souls and quiet waters to calm our anxious minds. He doesn’t just patch us up—He restores us. He leads us, not with pressure or panic, but with purpose, guiding us on the right path for His glory, not ours.

But even in the darkest valleys—the hospital rooms, the heartbreaks, the battles we never chose—He walks with us. His presence is our protection. His rod and staff, symbols of both discipline and defense, bring us comfort, not fear.

And then, something beautiful happens. God doesn’t just lead us through trouble—He prepares a feast for us in the presence of it. Right there, in front of enemies and fears, He honors and blesses us. Our cup isn’t just filled—it overflows.

Psalm 23 ends with a promise: goodness and love will pursue us every day, and our forever home is secure in His presence.

Today, pause and let that truth wash over you. You are not alone. You are not forgotten. You are not lacking.

You are shepherded.

Prayer:

Lord,
Thank You for being my Shepherd.
In every moment—whether peaceful or painful—You are near.
Lead me beside still waters when life feels rushed.
Restore my soul when I am weary.
Even in dark valleys, help me trust that You walk with me.
Let Your goodness and love surround me today,
and remind me that I am always safe in Your care.
Amen.

Psalm 23 (NIV)

1
The Lord is my shepherd, I lack nothing.
2
He makes me lie down in green pastures,
he leads me beside quiet waters,
3
he refreshes my soul.
He guides me along the right paths
for his name’s sake.
4
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.
5
You prepare a table before me
in the presence of my enemies.
You anoint my head with oil;
my cup overflows.
6
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.

Song;

Verse 1
The Lord is my Shepherd, I shall not fear,
He leads me to pastures where waters are clear.
He gives me new strength when my spirit is low,
And shows me the pathway where his mercy flows.

Chorus
You are with me, I’m never alone,
In the darkest valley, Your light is shown.
Your rod and staff bring peace to my soul,
You spread out a table and feed me full
Surely Your goodness will follow my days,
And I will abide in your warmth always

Verse 2
Though shadows may gather and trials descend,
I trust in Your protection that will not end.
My cup overflows with blessings untold,
You crown me with favor, my heart made bold.

Chorus
You are with me, I’m never alone,
In the darkest valley, Your light is shown.
Your rod and staff bring peace to my soul,
You spread out a table and feed me full
Surely Your goodness will follow my days,
And I will abide in your warmth always

Bridge
In Your dwelling I’ll sing evermore,
Safe in the arms I was made for.
Peace like a river flows through my pain,
Love everlasting, in You I remain.

Final Chorus
You are with me, I’m never alone,
In the darkest valley, Your light is shown.
Your rod and staff bring peace to my soul,
You spread out a table and feed me full
Surely Your goodness will follow my days,
And I will abide in your warmth always

Forever I’ll dwell in the house of the Lord—
Shepherd of my soul, I am Yours.

Copyright © 2025 by Skyler Thomas