The writer of Psalm 136 is a bit of a broken record. Twenty-six times he repeats the same exact phrase: His love endures forever. The "his" is God, of course. Perhaps this psalmist knew his readers or hearers might forget God's love in the midst of troubling times and so he drives the truth deep into their souls. Do you need to hear this truth?

I've been preaching from the Psalms over the past few weeks and sharing songs inspired by several of these Hebrew poems. When it came time to focus on Psalm 23, I decided to write a song which would reflect the joy and refreshment David wanted his hearers to experience as they heard his comforting psalm. I pray The Lord Is My Shepherd will bring your into God's loving and caring presence.

The Lord is My Shepherd

Verse 1:
The Lord is my shepherd; I lack nothing good.

I lie in green pastures; I drink from the brook.

My soul is refreshed, oh! My soul is refreshed, oh!

My soul is refreshed!

Verse 2:
The Lord is my shepherd; I follow his lead.

In darkest of valleys; I’ve nothing to dread.

My soul is refreshed, oh! My soul is refreshed, oh!

My soul is refreshed!

Verse 3:The Lord is my shepherd; His love follows me.

Each day in his presence; His goodness I see.

My soul is refreshed, oh! My soul is refreshed, oh!

My soul is refreshed!

Verse 4:
The Lord is my shepherd; My cup overflows.

Forever and ever; I’ll dwell in his home.

My soul will rejoice, oh! My soul will rejoice, oh!

My soul will rejoice!

©2025 Mike Neifert (Inspired by Psalm 23)

Wars abound. You've noticed, right? And you're praying? For whom and for what are you petitioning God? Mark Twain's essay, The War Prayer, and Joshua's encounter with the head of God's heavenly army might challenge you to pray differently.

When I was young, I got "saved" over and over again. I could always think of something I'd done which I was sure would send me to hell. I learned later what salvation really is and found joy in accepting it and living for Jesus.

Athletes I coach made it to the State meet. Others did not. There were smiles and tears aplenty throughout the qualifying meet. The same was true at the State championship. The same is true in the church. There are events which bring rejoicing and those which induce sobbing. God will help us to help each other in both.

Do you find joy in hearing how well others are doing? Are you blessed when your leadership or your words encourage another? Why not live a life of giving happiness to others as often as you can with God's help!

What words best describe God? David, the author of Psalm 86 which inspired the song I share today, and many others would shout their answer, "Gracious!" God is gracious, slow to anger, full of love. Gracious God, which I wrote earlier this year, gives God glory for his compassion and mercy. I trust you will grow in your love for him as you listen.

Gracious God

You are a gracious God, slow to anger, full of love.
Your faithfulness endures forever (and ever).
Your heart is merciful; your strength beyond compare.
Your people rightly fear your name.

Chorus:
Hear our prayers, Lord! Teach us your ways!
Guard our steps for all of our days!
And we will praise your name forever
With undivided hearts.

Verse 2:
You are a good God, comforting the poor and needy.
In their distress they call to you (you answer).
Your deeds are marvelous; providing help and granting mercy.
Your people rightly trust in you.

Verse 3:
You, God, deliver us, from every enemy.
No foe can stand against; they all fall down before you.
Your servants all rejoice; they shout your victory!
Your people rightly worship you.

©2025 Mike Neifert (Inspired by Psalm 86)

Can an AI-generated prayer become a real prayer? What is it that makes worship true worship? It's more than the words, whatever their source which makes for "in the Spirit" worship and "in truth" prayer.