The 23rd Psalm – There is Never a “There” Where God is Not There

The 23rd Psalm is one of the most beloved psalms of the Bible.

It is easy to love the 23rd Psalm. Who doesn’t want to know about “The Lord” who “is my shepherd”? Green pastures, still waters, restoration of the soul?

That’s good stuff.

But I don’t think that’s what makes the 23rd Psalm great. The thing I appreciate about the 23rd Psalm is it doesn’t sugar coat life.

I often hear people say something like, “I just heard back from the doctors. The tests came back negative. It wasn’t cancer. God is so good.”

And I agree. I am glad that they are cancer free. And I am really glad that the tests came back negative because that’s what I had been praying for too.

But I can’t help but wonder what would have happened if the tests came back positive and they did have cancer. Is God no longer good?

The thing about the 23rd Psalm is that “Even though I walk through the valleys of the shadow of death, Thou art with me. Thy rod, Thy staff they comfort me.”

Valleys of the shadow of death. Doesn’t very pleasant. Sounds downright frightening. But I am glad it’s there. Because, sometimes, life is downright frightening and unpleasant. And what God promises us is that God is there too – leading, guiding, comforting.

There is never a “there” where God is not there.

I love this Psalm. I love this Psalm because I know that God is always with me. Whether I am healthy or sick, whether I am rich or poor, no matter what God is with me. And God is with you.

Love the 23rd Psalm.