Psalm 23: Group Study Handout

How to use: read Psalm 23 aloud together, then take the questions in order. One page is enough for an evening.

Overview

Yahweh is a shepherd who provides everything needed. He makes the psalmist rest in green pastures and leads him beside still waters. The psalmist's soul is restored, and he is guided in the right paths because of Yahweh's name.

Key verse

“Yahweh is my shepherd: I shall lack nothing.”
Psalm 23:1 (WEB)

Outline

Psalm 23:1–2 The Lord as Shepherd
Psalm 23:3–4 Restoration and Guidance
Psalm 23:5–6 Abundance and Assurance

Discussion questions

In v1, what does the phrase 'I shall lack nothing' suggest about God’s provision?
What do the 'green pastures' and 'still waters' in v2 signify in the context of care and rest?
The imagery of 'the valley of the shadow of death' in v4 raises questions about why such paths exist for believers?
The phrase 'in the presence of my enemies' in v5 prompts us to ask how God prepares a table despite conflict?
When has God's presence offered you comfort, like 'Your rod and your staff' (v4) during difficult times?

Go deeper

Passages that echo Psalm 23: John 10, Philippians 4, Revelation 7.

Before next time: read Psalm 24.