Psalm 23, a Revision

I like to take a different perspective on the Word of God sometimes. It does not mean that I get it right, I just see it from a different perspective. You have to understand that to rephrase the Scriptures into a form that makes it more understandable for you can easily be misunderstanding. What I mean, is that you always have to understand that it is just your "take" on the Bible, not the actual meaning of God's Word. True, paraphrasing can simplify the truths of God's Word, but it lacks the deep technical understanding that comes from studying the original language. In the end, this is not an authorized translitation, but is just a transliteration of the Word as I understand it. Today, I'm going to do Psalm 23.

1 The Lord watches over me, I want for nothing.
     2 He finds comfortable places for me to rest, and quiet places to be refreshed
3 He revitalizes me. He shows me right ways of living to honor His name.
     4 Even if death seems imminent, I will not be afraid, because He is with me and nobody can stand against Him. Your correction and protection are comforting to me.
5 Even when my enemies threaten, you provide me with everything. You give me the honor of princes and give me more than I deserve.
     6. Truly, blessings and mercy will be present all through my life, and I will abide with God forever.

Below is the NIV version... which is also a transliteration from the King James Version.


1 The LORD is my shepherd, I shall not be in want. 2 He makes me lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside quiet waters, 3 he restores my soul. He guides me in paths of righteousness for his name's sake. 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. 5 You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies. You anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows. 6 Surely goodness and love will follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the LORD forever.

The NIV version came through much scholarship... my version is just a personal understanding of this passage. If it helps you, I am glad. If not, remember it is not the absolute authority on the Word of God, it is just what God has shown me up to this point in my life. Ok, so maybe it was a little overkill with that point, but I want to make sure that you realize when reading this, that I am not proclaiming any authority. I just want to offer you some extra perspective.

God Bless, and happy reading!