Psalm 23 is short and sweet as far as chapters of the Bible go. It’s a well know passage of scripture with popular hymns both ancient and modern making this psalm a classic.

The problem with familiarity is that you can lose a sense of wonder. When someone first tells you that they love you, it’s a memorable occasion but the hundredth time you hear those words, the impact has lessened. The words are probably more true the 100th time so it’s worth savouring every good thing.

When I was at uni, my pastor Jack announced he was going to a six-week series on Psalm 23 - I wasn’t sure what to think… that represented one verse per week. I thought his sermons would either be very short or very repetitive whereas in actual fact, he could have spend six months unpacking the context, meaning and significance of each and every word. Nearly 15 years later, these six verses are still unfolding and gaining significance.

Having spent time every morning trying my best to connect with God since the start of the year, I have felt a sense of being brought back to life. For several years, I’d struggled to make time to dwell in God’s presence and consequently allowed the weight of the world to drag me down. The refreshing routine of dwelling for me consists of a several elements:

Waking up 15 minutes early
Switching off from distraction
Opening my bible and reading
Stopping and reflecting
Responding to what I’m reading with a few lines of writing or a song

In this time, I’m reminded of who I am. I feel revived. I feel more grateful. I find moments of peace and stillness. I am transformed from a pool of stagnant water into a cup that overflows… and here is a celebratory song.

Andy Baker, Chief Enthusiast, Homegrown Worship