Psalms 23

1 Yahweh, you [care for] me [like] a shepherd [cares for his sheep]. [So] I have everything that I need.

A psalm of David. Since the Lord is my shepherd, I have everything I need.

2 You [encourage] me [and give me peace]; [you are like a shepherd] who leads [his sheep] to places where there is plenty of green grass [for them to eat], and lets them rest beside streams where the water [is flowing] slowly.

He gives me rest in green fields. He leads me towards quietly flowing streams.

3 You renew my strength. You guide me along the roads that are the right ones [for me] in order that I can honor you.

He revives me. He guides me along the right paths because that's the kind of person he is.

4 Even when I am walking through very dangerous dark ravines where I might be killed, I will not be afraid of anything because you are with me. You protect me [like a shepherd protects his sheep]. [He uses] his club and his walking stick [to protect them from being attacked by wild animals].

Even when I walk through the valley dark as death, I'm not afraid of any evil, because you are right there with me; your rod and your staff protect me.

5 You prepare a [great] feast for me, in a place where my enemies can see me. You [joyfully receive me], [as people joyfully receive the guests they have invited] [by] pouring [olive] oil over their heads. You have given me very many blessings!

You prepare a banquet for me before my enemies. You honor me by anointing my head with olive oil. My cup is so full it overflows!

6 I am certain that you will be good to me and act mercifully toward me as long as I live; and [then, O] Yahweh, I will live in your home [in heaven] forever.

I'm absolutely certain that your goodness and trustworthy love will be with me all through my life, and I will live in the house of the Lord forever.