If you only focus on one verse or a few verses of Scripture you miss the sweeping vistas often presented, even in the most familiar passages.
Psalm 23 stands fine by itself, one of the best known sections of all Scripture. Its grandeur and picture of protection and comfort ensure that.
But when you consider it as the fulcrum of three Psalms read one right after the other, it becomes even more powerful.
Take it further. Read Psalm 22, 23, and 24 together in the majestic language of the New Revised Standard Version. Then read Psalm 22, 23, and 24 again in an everyday language translation like The Message.
Yes, it will take you a few minutes, but probably no more time than you spent watching Tiger King or the Super Bowl or whatever.
Do you see the flow? Doesn’t it mirror our own ups and downs in dealing with the challenges and joys of life? David goes from despair in Psalm 22 (“My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?”) to praising God in the midst of despair (“You who fear the Lord, praise him!” (v. 23); “he did not hide his face from me, but heard when I cried to him.” (v. 24) to the serene rest of Psalm 23 to the celebration of God’s sovereignty in Psalm 24 (“The earth is the Lord’s and all that is in it”).
Take a step back and view the entire amazing expanse. View it in Scripture, and look for it in life. God is there with us, whether on the mountain or down in the valley.