What is the meaning of Psalm 23:2? He makes me lie down • The phrase shows that rest is the Shepherd’s initiative, not ours. We are lovingly compelled to pause. • Matthew 11:28–29 reminds us that the Lord Himself says, “Come to Me…and I will give you rest,” echoing the Shepherd’s insistence that His sheep cease from their striving. • Mark 6:31 illustrates Jesus guiding the disciples away from relentless ministry for renewal. • Ezekiel 34:15 pictures God declaring, “I Myself will tend My flock and make them lie down,” confirming the literal care promised here. in green pastures • “Green” signals fresh, nourishing grass—an image of abundance, not scarcity. Sheep lie down only when fully satisfied, so the line affirms God’s complete provision. • Ezekiel 34:14 speaks of the Lord feeding His flock “in a good pasture,” strengthening the visual. • John 6:35, where Jesus calls Himself the Bread of Life, shows the ultimate fulfillment of nourishment in Christ. • Philippians 4:19 underscores the same truth: “My God will supply all your needs.” He leads me • The Shepherd does not drive from behind; He walks ahead, inviting us to follow His example and voice. • Psalm 32:8 promises, “I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go.” • John 10:3–4 pictures Jesus calling His own sheep by name and leading them out, stressing personal guidance. • Isaiah 30:21 affirms that when we veer to the right or left we will hear, “This is the way; walk in it,” confirming His moment-by-moment direction. beside quiet waters • “Quiet” (or still) waters are safe, unthreatening pools where sheep can drink without fear of rushing currents. The Shepherd’s route always includes refreshment free from needless alarm. • Revelation 7:17 portrays the Lamb guiding His people to “springs of living water,” connecting temporal refreshment with eternal life. • Jeremiah 31:25 promises, “I will refresh the weary and satisfy the faint.” • John 7:37-38 points to Christ as the source: “If anyone is thirsty, let him come to Me and drink,” confirming that the peaceful waters ultimately flow from Him. summary Psalm 23:2 paints a literal, tender portrait of the Lord’s care. He initiates our rest, feeds us abundantly, guides us personally, and refreshes us deeply. The verse assures every believer that in the Shepherd’s presence there is satisfied stillness and steady renewal—today and forever. |
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