Tyndale Open Study NotesPsalms 23

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:

• integrity (Psalms 25:4–7, 12–14, 21; 26:6, 11; 27:7–12),

• 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).

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).

The Lord promises to care for his children (Psalm 34:9–10; Isaiah 51:14). He showed this ability to Israel in the wilderness (Deuteronomy 2:7) and in the promised land (Deuteronomy 8:9).

• Sheep rest after they have eaten enough (Zephaniah 3:13; see Isaiah 11:7; compare Isaiah 13:20; 27:10).

• The Lord guides the sheep for their benefit (see Psalm 5:8).

• Sheep drink only from still water, so the shepherd finds peaceful streams for them.

• 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).

The shepherd used his rod and staff to protect against danger.

• A feast shows the Lord’s care and mercy for his people (see Psalm 22:26, 29). Enemies may watch, but they cannot disturb the guests.

• The ritual of anointing the head with oil honored guests (Psalm 92:9–11), and provided hospitality and refreshment (104:15; 133:2).

The Lord shows his unfailing love through his presence and the unique benefits he provides (Psalms 69:16; 86:17; 109:21; see 18:6; 61:4). He gives care that surpasses the temporary challenges from enemies (Psalm 7:1).