Big Healing Book - Psalm 23

Psalm 23:

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 will dwell in the house of the LORD for ever.

Notes on Psalm 23:

“I shall not want” does not mean “I don’t want anything good in my life;” it literally means “I shall not lack.” It is not Christian to try to avoid disappointment by not wanting anything. When the Lord is your shepherd, you should not be in lack of any good thing. If you’re sick, you’re lacking – you lack health! If you’re unable to work because you’re sick, you can end up in lack. If you had to remain sick, Psalm 23 would have to be revised to read, “The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not lack anything except physical healing. He maketh me to lie down in green gowns on my hospital bed so that I cannot walk the paths of righteousness for His name’s sake. The hospital staff, they comfort me with drugs. Thou preparest an operating table before me. My nose runneth over.” If you are sick, you lack healing. Because God is your Shepherd, you should not lack healing.

We see that healing for your emotions is included in the package when God is your Shepherd. He makes you lie down in green pastures, He leads you beside still waters and He restores your soul. Will God take care of you emotionally but not physically? Is a hospital a green pasture?

Healing is described as a mercy in the New Testament. The sick cried out for mercy and received it. If goodness and mercy are following you daily, how can you be excluded from the mercy of healing for your sick body? This whole Psalm shows God’s provision and care for you. That is why you can walk free from the fear of death. The Psalmist does not describe himself dying helplessly without God’s intervention. This Psalm points to victory in every area of your life.

Psalm 23 is not just a pretty poem to read at funerals! It applies to you NOW in this life!