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Psalm 23

Psalm 23. Questions for a midweek discussion, drawn from the sermon, approved before publishing.

verse 1

  1. Where in your life do you still speak of God as a shepherd, but not yet as your shepherd?
  2. What are you afraid you will lack this week, and can you hand that fear to the shepherd?

verses 2 to 3

  1. What would it take for you to actually lie down and rest this week, and what is keeping you standing?
  2. Where do you need God to still the water before you can drink?

verse 4

  1. What valley are you walking through right now, and are you walking it alone or led?
  2. What changes about your fear when you remember you are not walking alone?

verses 5 to 6

  1. Can you receive God's welcome even before your enemies have gone?
  2. Where can you see goodness and mercy having followed you, even in a season you did not enjoy?

For personal reflection at home

I am afraid

The psalm does not tell you the valley is not real. It tells you who is walking it with you. You are not asked to feel brave, only to remember you are not alone. Say the four words back to God this week: you are with me.

I am worn out

You do not have to earn your rest. The shepherd leads his sheep to lie down because he has already handled what was keeping them on their feet. Let him lead you to something quiet this week, and actually stop there.

I am grieving

Grief makes you feel the lack of the one you loved. The psalm does not rush you past that. It simply stays close, and promises that even here you are held by a shepherd who has not left. Let yourself be led slowly.

I am thankful

Sometimes the honest place is a full cup. Do not hurry past it. Name what is overflowing, and let your gratitude become worship rather than a passing feeling. Look back and notice goodness and mercy behind you.

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