Psalm 23: Paraphrased

Psalm 23 is a familiar, favorite psalm of comfort and faith. Many people have grown up hearing the words of this psalm by David, perhaps in Sunday school class, in a sermon, or at a funeral. Poetically, the psalm etches a place in our memories, and the meaning carves a place in our hearts. Many have tried to paraphrase Psalm 23, and there are many Bible versions, each with a little different approach to this passage of scripture.

No matter how many times you read or hear Psalm 23, it's always comforting. Recently, as I read this passage, I began to paraphrase it in a way that spoke volumes to me. Let me share my personal paraphrase of this beautiful psalm.

Paraphrase: Psalm 23

The Lord is my mentor, my counselor, my teacher. I shall not be left on my own to figure out my problems with my limited understanding. He implores me to trust Him for His knowledge, His ability, and His faithfulness. My teacher trains me to listen in quietness, that I might hear Him speak.

In the midst of my daily struggles, He brings calm to my anxious heart and peace to my turbulent situations. In full sight of those with impure motives, He provides more than my needs--allowing me to drink from the pool of His goodness, because He favors me.

Down the best path--the one right for me--He guides me with His gentle hand. But sometimes, when I think I have a better plan, I turn aside to follow an enticing whim. It's those times that I find myself walking though deep and anxious valleys of strife and frustration, of fear and uncertainty--overwhelmed by my situations. He comes after me, and in compassion, redirects me to the best path.

Throughout my life, tragic and difficult things happen, over which I have no foreknowledge or ability to intervene. But He's in control; He's ever-watchful and working. My Lord takes no days off and never sleeps.

If I think myself alone, I'm not; He's right there with me. Nothing happens in my life that He's not personally aware of every minute detail, motive, and secondary plot. I'm able to relax in the comfort of His wisdom, advice, presence, and care.

My Lord protects our relationship and keeps confidences. All my secrets are known to Him; our fellowship is sweet and comfortable. When I visit with Him and anticipate His attention, I'm satisfied with more than I can contain. The overflow naturally finds its way to others around me.

In the present, I'm well-cared for and loved, nestled-in with Him. My future days are confident--secure in my relationship with Him. How wonderful is His loving kindness to me today and every day to come.