Begin with 2 minutes of silence and stillness before God.

Is there a more timeless reminder of God’s care and provision than Psalm 23? Weddings, funerals, graduations, it can be heard recited in almost any setting. We are reminded in these incredible words what praise looks like in the context of prayer. Remember in praise we are not only honoring God, but we are also reminding our own hearts of His greatness. I like what Craig Curtis said back at Christmas, it is all about the “law of exposure.” The more we expose ourselves to a certain thing or idea the more ingrained it becomes. The more we talk about and pray about God’s goodness the more it becomes rooted in our hearts. Look at these words that David praises back to God.

"The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want." This opening line sets the tone for prayerful trust. Just as a shepherd cares for and tends to his flock, God is the great provider, protector, and guide. We are invited to approach God in prayer with a heart free from want, trusting in His sufficiency and grace.

"He makes me lie down in green pastures. He leads me beside still waters." Here, prayer finds peace in the midst of God's provision and presence. You get the picture of a serene environment because in prayer we find rest and nourishment for our weary souls. It's an invitation to seek solace in God's presence, allowing Him to lead us to places of spiritual refreshment.

"He restores my soul. He leads me in paths of righteousness for his name's sake." Prayer can lead us on a journey of restoration and guidance. It's an acknowledgment of God's transformative power, leading us away from darkness and into paths of righteousness. Through prayer, we seek His guidance, allowing Him to mold our hearts in alignment with His will.

"Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me." In prayer, we find courage amidst trials. David’s words echo the assurance that even in the darkest valleys, God's presence provides comfort and assurance. It encourages us to pray in confidence, knowing that God's guidance and protection accompany us through life's toughest moments.

"You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies; you anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows." Here, prayer becomes a celebration of God's blessing. It's an acknowledgment of His favor and abundance poured out even in the midst of challenges and opposition.

"Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life, and I shall dwell in the house of the Lord forever." Don’t miss the emphasis in the last line of this great Psalm. Because of the confidence, peace, provision, protection, and guidance, we experience in the presence of God, and we are reminded in prayer, that goodness and mercy overflow from the life of the believer. The “goodness and mercy” that David talks about here is not leading the way it is following. It is not what we are walking into, it is what we are leaving behind. The evidence that God’s people have stood in a certain place and time is the footprints of goodness and mercy that they leave behind.

Take 2 minutes to reflect in silence.

Reflections:

• Go back and read the words of Psalm 23 slowly. This time pause on each phrase and let it become a prayer of praise from your own life.

Family Devo: Psalm 23

By: Nicole McCardle

When partnering with your family to know, love, and follow Jesus, we strive to create and share content filtered by the Head-Heart-Hands model.   

Head: the knowledge of God and His Word | Heart: the personal connection from scripture | Hands: a missional mindset  

Head

How does a shepherd take care of his sheep? How is God like a shepherd? How are you like a sheep? 

Heart

We often feel like we need “more” to be happy. More toys, more friends, more money in our piggy banks. Read verse 1 again. The closer we get to Jesus, the more we realize that He is all we need, and He takes care of all our needs. How has God provided for you and your family?

Hands

Verse 6 says, “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.” How amazing is that? God is so good and loves us so much! Who can you invite to church with you this week, so that they too can hear about the goodness of God?

Prayer: God, You are our Good Shepherd. Thank You for guiding us, leading us, providing for us, loving us, and protecting us. Help us to put our trust in You and to follow Your lead. Amen.