Shane & Shane - Psalm 23 - Surely Goodness Surely Mercy Lyrics
Lyrics
The Lord is my Shepherd, I shall not want
In green pastures He makes me lie down
He restores my soul and leads me on for His name
For His great name
Surely goodness, surely mercy
Right beside me all my days
And I will dwell in Your house forever
And bless Your holy name
You prepare a table right before me
In the presence of my enemies
Though the arrow flies and the terror of night
Is at my door, I'll trust you Lord
Surely goodness, surely mercy
Right beside me all my days
And I will dwell in Your house forever
And bless Your holy name
Even though I walk through the valley
Of the shadow of death
I will fear no evil
Even though I walk through the valley
Of the shadow of death
You are on my side
Even though I walk through the valley
Of the shadow of death
I will fear no evil
Even though I walk through the valley
Of the shadow of death
You are on my side
Surely goodness, surely mercy
Right beside me all my days
And I will dwell in Your house forever
And bless Your holy name
Video
Psalm 23 (Surely Goodness, Surely Mercy)
Meaning & Inspiration
Released on October 28, 2015, Shane & Shane’s "Psalm 23 - Surely Goodness Surely Mercy" is far more than a simple musical rendition; it is a profound and accessible re-imagining of one of Scripture’s most cherished passages, translating ancient truth into contemporary worship with striking clarity and spiritual depth. The duo takes the timeless promises of Psalm 23 and crafts a powerful, meditative declaration of faith that speaks directly to the human soul’s deepest needs for comfort, provision, and ultimate hope.
The song immediately establishes its biblical foundation by centering on the shepherd metaphor, declaring, "The Lord is my Shepherd, I shall not not want." This opening line encapsulates the essence of God's provision, a theme echoed throughout Scripture, from the wilderness wanderings of Israel where manna was provided (Exodus 16) to Jesus declaring Himself the Good Shepherd who lays down His life for His sheep (John 10:11). The subsequent imagery of being led "in green pastures" and made to "lie down" evokes a sense of profound peace and rest, a spiritual refreshment found only in trusting God’s care. This isn't just physical sustenance, but the restoration of the soul, a deep spiritual renewal that God graciously grants, leading believers "on for His name" – not for our merit, but for His glory and righteousness, as Proverbs 3:5-6 instructs us to trust in the Lord with all our heart and He will direct our paths.
The chorus, the heart of the song, becomes a powerful mantra: "Surely goodness, surely mercy / Right beside me all my days / And I will dwell in Your house forever / And bless Your holy name." This is a direct affirmation of Psalm 23:6, a bold declaration of confidence in God’s unwavering character. The certainty conveyed by "surely" underscores the faithfulness of God, whose goodness is limitless (Psalm 107:1) and whose mercy is new every morning (Lamentations 3:22-23). These attributes are not distant concepts but active forces "right beside me all my days," a constant, intimate presence that offers solace through every season of life. The ultimate hope articulated in "I will dwell in Your house forever" transcends earthly concerns, pointing to the eternal fellowship promised to believers, a dwelling not just in a physical temple but in the very presence of God, as Jesus promised in John 14:1-3.
The song bravely confronts the reality of adversity, illustrating God's steadfast presence even amidst hostility. "You prepare a table right before me / In the presence of my enemies" is a vivid portrayal of God’s protective power and triumphant provision. This image from Psalm 23:5 speaks of divine honor and abundance, even when surrounded by opposition, a testament to God's ability to turn moments of fear into opportunities for His glory (Isaiah 25:6-8). The lyrics expand on this, acknowledging that "though the arrow flies and the terror of night / Is at my door, I'll trust you Lord." This acknowledges the real, visceral fears and attacks we face – whether spiritual, emotional, or physical – but immediately counters them with an active declaration of trust, echoing the psalmist's confidence in God as a refuge and strength (Psalm 46:1).
The profound comfort of "Even though I walk through the valley / Of the shadow of death / I will fear no evil / You are on my side" resonates deeply. This section, repeated for emphasis, delves into the most challenging experiences of life – grief, loss, despair, and the ultimate specter of mortality itself. It’s a powerful acknowledgment of suffering, yet it’s immediately met with a defiant declaration of faith. The fear is dispelled not by the absence of the valley, but by the tangible presence of God, whose comforting "rod and staff" (Psalm 23:4) guide and protect. This mirrors promises like Isaiah 41:10, where God reassures us not to fear, for He is with us, and Hebrews 13:5-6, which affirms His unwavering presence. The song beautifully reinforces that even in our darkest moments, we are never alone, for the Shepherd is always by our side, empowering us to face evil without terror.
In essence, Shane & Shane's "Psalm 23 - Surely Goodness Surely Mercy" serves as a spiritual anchor, guiding listeners through the foundational truths of God’s character as revealed in this cherished psalm. It’s a masterclass in translating ancient text into an engaging, contemporary declaration of faith, emphasizing God’s provision, protection, and eternal promise. The song encourages a deeper trust, reminding us that no matter the circumstance, God’s goodness and mercy are indeed surely beside us, every single day, leading us Home. It invites believers to not just sing *about* these truths but to actively live *in* them, finding peace and strength in the ever-present Shepherd.