No matter how many times I quote it, no matter how many times I read it, no matter how many versions I read it in, this word from heaven above never gets old, never tires out, never leaves me wanting, but always fills me up.
One of the most precious memories I have from my life in Texas was related to this scripture. It was Ordination Sunday, yes my ordination to the ministry, I was setting in a chair front of the auditorium and people were laying hands on me and praying over me, a friend of mine who attended another church, came for this special day. They came to pray with me, they came up to the front where I was setting, and they got down on their knees right in front of my chair, laid their bible on my lap, and opened it to Ps 23, then the most beautiful prayer from this psalm was spoken over me...it went something like this:
The LORD is your shepherd; you shall not want.
He makes you lie down in green pastures. He leads you beside still waters.
He restores your soul. He leads you in paths of righteousness for his name's sake.
Even though you walk through the valley of the shadow of death, you will fear no evil, for he is with you; his rod and his staff, they comfort you.
He prepares a table before you in the presence of your enemies; he anoints your head with oil; your cup overflows.
Surely goodness and mercy shall follow you all the days of your life, and you shall dwell in the house of the LORD forever.
If you know anyone that needs comfort, peace, mercy, grace, healing, or just needs to be loved, pray Psalm 23 over them and for them and take special care to drive home the words, "your" and "you" making this Psalm very personal. It will change how they view this scripture, they will hold it near and dear to their heart. and chances are they will never forget it. I never have! I always go right to it when I need God to come closer and closer to me.
Be blessed!
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