Chances are you could say Psalm 23 from memory. It has been set to music, embroidered onto pillows, recorded and sewn inside stuffed lambs. And the list could go on. The Psalm paints a beautiful picture of what it means to be God’s child. He is our shepherd; we are the sheep who want for nothing because their heavenly Father gives them everything. It’s a great lesson to teach students, and it means you can do some really cute sheep projects. You can’t ask for much more than that!
Our Good Shepherd
Towards the end of Psalm 23, we hear that “goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life.” It is interesting to note that in Hebrew the word follow could actually be translated “pursue.” God is not simply offering his good gifts, he is actively pursuing us, chasing us down in order to give us his blessings. Furthermore, we are sheep who do not have to go looking for their shepherd. Our shepherd finds us and will not give up on us no matter how far we run from him. Our pastures may not always be green; life might lead us into the valley of death, but our Good Shepherd is always there with his promise of salvation and restoration.
Psalm 23 Lesson Ideas
Explore the whole book of Psalms with your middle schoolers this year using this sketch notes unit. It is a wonderfully rewarding study! Additionally, Psalm 23 pairs wonderfully with the story of Jesus our Good Shepherd. Study both with your elementary students using this unit on the ministry of Jesus or experience the story in a new way with Bible activity centers.
If you are looking for more ready-to-use resources for your students, check them out in my store.
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