While I strongly believe in not adding or taking away any words from the Bible, understand that this is not my purpose here. The amplified version of the Bible provides help with the vocabulary that is similar to my purpose here. The difference is that this is just my simple interpretation; it's self-talk that might just help someone else out there at the same time. In other words, I'm definitely not an expert on Hebrew and Greek etymology and biblical interpretation; I simply think that sharing a paraphrase or an interpretation can sometimes help bring enlightenment.
He's More Filling Than That Latte
1. The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not want gourmet coffee, shopping sprees, and Disney cruises in the middle of cold winters, for Jesus is sufficient. Strength will rise if I wait on His sufficiency.
He's More Peaceful Than Our Circumstances
2. He maketh me to lie down in green pastures when I'm troubled; he leadeth me beside the still waters. Although in reality I'm in dysfunctional environments that distress me, indeed I do feel like I'm in the middle of an idyllic poem when the Savior reaches down in comfort. My circumstances no longer matter in His presence.
He's a God of Restoration
3. He restoreth my soul by leading me toward choices of righteousness to represent His name.
Sometimes the path gets dark, but His word restores my soul with its light and direction.
He Walks With Us Through Our Trials
4. Yea, though I walk through the halls of Valley where I teach and through our football field
(“Death Valley”), I will fear no angry students and parents; for thou art with me at school and at home. Regardless of separation of church and state, Thou art omnipresent; thy rod of guidance and thy staff of colleagues they comfort me.
He Has a Plan(Though It May Not Seem Like It In the Midst of Trials)
5. Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies; I don't feel like feasting with my “enemies,” but Thou hast a plan. Thou teachest me to rise above. Thou anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over.
Membership Has Its Rewards
6. Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever.
