SkiesChristian meditation
A Psalm 23 meditation
A ten-minute guided meditation, one phrase of Psalm 23 at a time.
The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want. He makes me lie down in green pastures; He leads me beside quiet waters. He restores my soul; He guides me in the paths of righteousness for the sake of His name. 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. You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies. You anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows. Surely goodness and mercy will follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the LORD forever.
Psalm 23:1–6
To meditate on Psalm 23, read it slowly, then take one phrase at a time (“The LORD is my shepherd,” “He restores my soul,” “You are with me”) and repeat it quietly, letting it become a prayer. Ten minutes is enough. Return to the phrase whenever your mind wanders.
The meditation
- Settle (1 minute). Sit comfortably. Breathe slowly. Pray: “Lord, speak to me through your word.”
- Read (2 minutes). Read the whole psalm slowly, twice.
- “The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want” (2 minutes). Breathe in on “The LORD is my shepherd,” out on “I shall not want.” What do you think you lack today? Tell him.
- “He restores my soul” (2 minutes). Picture the quiet waters. Where are you tired? Ask him to restore you.
- “For You are with me” (2 minutes). Name the valley you are in, or someone you love is in. Repeat: “You are with me.”
- Rest (1 minute). Sit in silence. End with verse 6 and amen.
If your mind wanders
It will. That is normal, not failure. Notice, and gently come back to the phrase. Each return is a small turning toward God.
Questions people ask
How long should a Christian meditation be?
Start with five to ten minutes. A short meditation done often is better than a long one done rarely.
