What does Psalm 23:6 mean?
David closes with confidence about his whole future. "Goodness and mercy" stand for God's kindness and his loyal, covenant love. "Shall follow me" is stronger in Hebrew than it sounds in English; the word suggests pursuit, as if God's love were chasing him every day of his life. Enemies may pursue David, but something greater is pursuing him too. To "dwell in the house of the LORD" means living near God in worship and fellowship. Christians also hear in it the hope of eternal life with him. The psalm that began with a shepherd ends at home.
Psalm 23:6 in the King James Version
Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the LORD for ever.
Context
5 You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies. You anoint my head with oil. My cup runs over.
6 Surely goodness and loving kindness shall follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the LORD’s house forever.
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Frequently asked questions
What does Psalm 23:6 mean?
David closes with confidence about his whole future. "Goodness and mercy" stand for God's kindness and his loyal, covenant love. "Shall follow me" is stronger in Hebrew than it sounds in English; the word suggests pursuit, as if God's love were chasing him every day of his life. Enemies may pursue David, but something greater is pursuing him too. To "dwell in the house of the LORD" means living near God in worship and fellowship. Christians also hear in it the hope of eternal life with him. The psalm that began with a shepherd ends at home.
What does Psalm 23:6 say in the KJV?
Psalm 23:6 (KJV) reads: “Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the LORD for ever.”