Psalm 23 is one of the most comforting and soul-settling passages in the Bible. It invites you into the tender care of God as your Shepherd, someone who knows you personally, leads you faithfully and provides for you fully. Today, let’s begin with just the first verse:

“The Lord is my shepherd; I have all that I need.” (Psalm 23:1, NLT)

Take a deep breath and let those words sink in.

The Lord is your shepherd. Not just a shepherd for the whole world—though that’s true—but yours. He knows your heart, your questions, and your fears. Shepherds don’t lead from afar; they stay near, providing protection, correction, and care.

John 10:14 NASB1995 I am the good shepherd, and I know My own and My own know Me,

You have all that you need. I know how hard it can be to believe that sometimes. Maybe you’re in a season of uncertainty or waiting, where it feels like God’s provision isn’t enough. But His Word reminds us He always gives what is good. His care doesn’t mean you’ll never have wants or challenges—it means you’re never without His presence, peace, or guidance.

Psalms 143:8 NASB1995 Let me hear Your lovingkindness in the morning; For I trust in You; Teach me the way in which I should walk; For to You I lift up my soul.

Dallas Willard said, “The Lord is my shepherd—that is relationship. I shall not want—that is provision.” Let that sink in. God’s shepherding care meets your needs—not just material needs, but your need for comfort, clarity, and connection with Him.

Notice that Psalm 23 doesn’t say you must find the right path. It says that the Lord your Shepherd leads you, guides you, and refreshes you, even making you lie down to rest in good places.

For someone like me—a recovering perfectionist with some chronic health challenges—this truth is life-giving. God’s guidance is personal and kind, freeing me from the pressure to control every outcome.

Isaiah 30:21 NASB1995 Your ears will hear a word behind you, “This is the way, walk in it,” whenever you turn to the right or to the left.

Take a moment to pause and ask Him:

• Lord, where am I putting too much pressure on myself?
• How can I trust You with this decision instead of trying to control it?
• Show me how You’ve guided me before, so I can see Your faithfulness now.

Breathe deeply and intentionally as you pray either (or both) of the breath prayers below.

The Lord is my shepherd, I have all that I need.

The Lord my shepherd, leads me in right paths.

Repeat them slowly, letting their truth settle you. Picture God gently guiding you—not to make you prove anything, but to invite you into His peace and provision.

With each breath, release the stress of trying to control the outcome. Let your questions rise—they’re starting points for deeper conversations with God.

As you move through your day, keep this breath prayer close. Each breath is a reminder: God sees you, knows you, and cares for you. You are His. And because He is your Shepherd, you truly have all that you need.

Tomorrow, let’s discover together how the Lord, our Shepherd, also brings peace that calms our hearts and relieves anxiety.