The 23rd Psalm

A Psalm of David

The 23rd Psalm is a hymn of trust in God, often used as a prayer.

This is the version that is more widely known. It is the traditional reading.

Bereavement Prayer

Psalm

The LORD is my shepherd;
I shall not want.

He maketh me to lie down in green pastures;
He leadeth me beside the still waters.

He restoreth my soul:
He leadeth me in the paths of righteousness
for his name's sake.

Yea though I walk through the valley
of the shadow of death,
I will fear no evil:
for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff
they comfort me.

Thou preparest a table before me
in the presence of mine enemies:
thou anointest my head with oil:
my cup runneth over.

Surely goodness and mercy
shall follow me
all the days of my life:
and I shall dwell in the
house of the LORD forever.

King James Version

This version brings the words of the psalm into everyday language.

Psalm

The LORD is my shepard,
I have everything I need,

He lets me rest in green meadows;
He leads me beside peaceful streams.

He renews my strength.
He guides me along right paths,
bringing honor to his name.

Even when I walk
through the valley of death,
I will not be afraid,
for You are close beside me.
Your rod and your staff
protect and comfort me.

You prepare a feast for me
in the presence of my enemies.
You welcome me as a guest,
anointing my head with oil.

My cup overflows with blessings.
Surely your goodness and unfailing
love will pursue me
all the days of my life,
and I will live in the house of the LORD
forever.

New Living Translation Bible

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