Show Don't Tell: Psalm 23

Instead of saying "God cares for us like a shepherd," walk through the valley. "The LORD is my shepherd, I lack nothing." One sentence summary of life with God—nothing missing. "He makes me lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside quiet waters, he refreshes my soul." Sheep won't lie down if hungry, threatened, or anxious. Green pastures mean safety and provision. Quiet waters—sheep fear rushing water. "He guides me along the right paths for his name's sake." His reputation at stake in our guidance. "Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me." Not around the valley—through it. Not absence of evil—absence of fear. Rod for predators; staff for rescue. "You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies." Eating while enemies watch—confident security. "You anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows." Honored guest. Abundance beyond capacity. "Surely goodness and love will follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the LORD forever." Not chasing goodness—it chases us. Temporary guest becomes permanent resident.