Psalm 23 is one of the Bible’s most beautiful passages. In this sermon series – preached by Rev. Michael Bowman and illustrated by Margaret Grubic – you’ll hear a comforting invitation: Live with deep trust in the Shepherd who guides, restores, provides, and pursues us with love.
“Let Go”
Psalm 23:1-3, NIV
When the psalmist says, “The LORD is my Shepherd, I lack nothing,” it’s an invitation to surrender. What does it mean to release our need for control and be led by the One who restores our souls?
“Notice”
Psalm 23:4, NIV
Even when the path leads through dark valleys, the Shepherd is near. Even here, we can notice God’s quiet presence that steadies us in fear and brings peace when life feels uncertain.
“Share”
Psalm 23:5, NIV
“You prepare a table before me…” God’s abundance doesn’t stop with us, or even with people we like. It extends even to our enemies. God’s table is a picture of God’s radical hospitality and grace in our lives.
“Embrace”
Psalm 23:6, NIV
The psalm ends not in fear but in belonging. “Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me…” The goodness and mercy of God pursue us wherever we go. May we learn to embrace the presence of our Shepherd who holds us in every season.
Try a guided imagery practice based on Psalm 23 with Margaret Grubic. At the end of the meditation, ask yourself these questions: What do these words reveal about God? What do these words reveal about me? How can I respond to the meaning of this passage?