Psalm 23 is probably the most famous and beloved of all psalms. 
In my women’s Bible study book, Whispers of My Heart, I gave this opportunity to the Bible study student. It’s a way for you to write your own psalm of praise to God.
Re-write each verse in your own words using a current problem or challenge you are facing. Remember, God delights in whatever your own God-given creativity produces. You’ll find David’s verse first, then you can write your own right after.
vs. 1: The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want.
vs. 2: He makes me lie down in green pastures.
He leads me beside still waters.
vs. 3: He restores my soul.
He leads me in paths of righteousness
for his name’s sake.
vs. 4: Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death,
I will fear no evil,
for you are with me;
your rod and your staff,
they comfort me.
vs. 5: You prepare a table before me
in the presence of my enemies;
you anoint my head with oil;
my cup overflows.
vs. 6: Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me
all the days of my life,
and I shall dwell in the house of the Lord
forever.
Based on that idea, here’s what I wrote:
The Lord is my doctor. I won’t lack for information and care. He takes care of my body, spirit and soul and will direct me to the best solution for my ailment. He relieves me from guilt because I have righteousness as His gift, not based on my performance. Even if something seems dangerous or unfixable, you are with me guiding me. Nothing will happen to me except what you want with me for your glory. Regardless of what actually happens, I have the assurance of dwelling with Him wherever I am.
Now write your own psalm using these prompts as a guide:
Lord God, you are…
I bless your holy name because…
Even though there is much trouble or pain around me, I…
I have seen your power and help in former times when…
I want to always…
Thank you, Lord God Almighty for…
I know you are…
And worthy to be praised.
I love making scripture personal and the Psalms are perfect for this. When I read this psalm of David, the shepherd and he says, the Lord is MY shepherd, it is so powerful. David knew what being a shepherd was all about, and he sees the God of the Universe as his guide, comforter, provider, protector, etc WOW!
Jeanne, thank you for encouraging us all with your insight. God is such a personal God. Keep up the great work for our Lord! I appreciate you taking the time to comment.
Hi
Thankyou for the. Prompts above its very inspirational i love to write psalms to God Almighty especially when i kneel to pray the Holy Spirit inspires and I write. Just came across your article and thought of saying hi and God Bless
Theresa, I’m so pleased my post was meaningful for you and added to your devotional practice with the Lord. What a wonderful time you must have with the Lord. I know my readers will enjoy and be encouraged to do the same thing you are, so thank you so much for stopping by and taking the time to comment.
A Psalm of The Valley
Oh Lord, heal my valley.
For once it was made, it flourished on a promise
To feed your people, to be a haven for those who seek you
Yet now, it is barren. Its trees give little fruit
The fields cry out for rain, and the light of your face is hidden behind dusty clouds
I wander the paths here and oft’ find myself lost in the thistles
Every night the enemy torments me, and I awaken to shame
My camps are empty; my flocks are sickly
Fools mock me; my works are tossed aside and forgotten
No singing comes from my house; I have lost my joy
Make straight my paths Lord, make clear my purpose
Let the trees of my valley once again bear your fruit
Let me sing, with a glad voice, your praises
Pour out your mercy on me; let me see the light of your face
Let all who travel to my valley know you are its keeper
and be blessed by the rest they find here.
In all things, You are the Lord, My God.
Glen, thank you so much for sharing this beautiful and heartfelt psalm. You have described powerfully the spiritual journey we all go through. You close with hope and peace. God bless you. We are blessed.