←Psalm 23→BSB

The Lord promises to take care of his children (34:9–10; Isa 51:14). He demonstrated this ability to Israel in the wilderness (Deut 2:7) and in the Promised Land (Deut 8:9).

• Sheep rest after they have eaten their fill (Zeph 3:13; see Isa 11:7; cp. Isa 13:20; 27:10).
• The Lord leads the sheep for their own benefit (see Ps 5:8).
• Sheep only drink from still water, so the shepherd seeks out peaceful streams for his flock.

• Cp. 19:7; the Lord’s word renews my strength.
• The Lord guides by rescuing his people from evil (23:4–5; see 31:3), bringing them back to himself (5:8; 61:2), caring (48:14; 139:10), ruling (67:4), counseling (73:24), protecting (78:53; 107:30; 143:11), and instructing them in wisdom (27:11; see Prov 4:11).
• The Lord’s name guarantees the relationship; he guards his reputation against any accusation of his abandoning his people or allowing them to sin (see Pss 25:11; 31:3; 106:8; 143:11).

The shepherd used his rod and staff to fend off danger.

• A feast demonstrates the Lord’s care and mercy toward his people (see 22:26, 29). Although enemies can watch, they cannot trouble the guests.
• The ritual of anointing the head with oil showed guests honor (92:9–11), hospitality, and refreshment (104:15; 133:2).

The Lord expresses his unfailing love through the goodness of his presence and other benefits that he alone provides (69:16; 86:17; 109:21; see 18:6; 61:4). He actively bestows care that is greater than the temporary trials imposed by enemies (7:1).