Psalm 23:1-6 (The Lord is My Shepherd) - Universal Perspective

Psalm 23 uses shepherd imagery to express complete trust in YHWH's care. The poem moves from pastoral scene (1-4) to banquet host (5-6), from third person ("he") to second person ("you"), as intimacy deepens through the valley.

INTERPRETIVE NOTES: Ancient Near Eastern kings were called shepherds; David applies this royal-divine title to YHWH. "The valley of the shadow of death" (v.4) is literally "deep darkness ravine."

PREACHING ANGLES: The shepherd goes through the valley with us, Enemies see our blessing and can't stop it, The journey ends home, not in the valley

SHOW DON'T TELL:\n Before: God cares for us like a shepherd

After: Feel the wool rough under your fingers as you stumble through the ravine, terror clawing at your throat—then his staff taps your side, guiding, and his voice cuts through the dark: 'This way. I know this path.'

IMAGERY ELEMENTS: shepherd's staff guiding, dark ravine, overflowing cup, green pastures

CAUTIONS: Don't sentimentalize away the valley, Avoid prosperity gospel reading