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The Shepherd Trilogy
A Shepherd Looks at Psalm 23: Discovering God's Love for You
Travel the Shepherd's path to the green pastures and cool, refreshing waters of Psalm 23. As a shepherd himself, W. Phillip Keller shares his insights into the life and character of sheep --and of the Good Shepherd who loves and cares for them. A Shepherd Looks at Psalm 23 will give new meaning to the ageless Shepherd Psalm, enriching your trust in and love for the Lord who watches closely over you. Keller infuses new hope into our relationship with Christ. Part of the Timeless Faith Classics series, this As we lie down in green pastures or walk through the shadowy valley, we're assured that whatever our path, whatever our stumbling, the Shepherd will lovingly guide, carry, and protect us. We can depend on His goodness and mercy all the days of our lives. Readers will find comfort , guidance , and reassurance with A Shepherd Looks at Psalm 23 .
144 pages, Hardcover
First published January 1, 1970
3071 people are currently reading
9930 people want to read
About the author
W. Phillip Keller
86 books129 followersWeldon Phillip Keller (1920-1997) wrote more than thirty-five books on Christian subjects, including his most popular book A Shepherd Looks at Psalm 23 The son of missionary parents in Kenya, Keller grow up in Africa before becoming a world citizen as a photographer, agronomist, and author. His books have over two million copies in print.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,671 reviews
March 6, 2017
It has actually been a few years since I read this book, but having recently recommended it to a friend, it occurred to me that I should add it to my shelf. If I had to rate the Christian teaching books I've read in my life, in terms of how much of the material "stuck with me," and how often I've referred to it later in my own writing and speaking, this book would be very near the top.
When it comes to understanding the full significance of the shepherd/sheep analogy, used in Scripture for the relationship between God and His people, there is simply nothing like the perspective of an actual shepherd, who also loves the Lord. Since I first read this book, perhaps fifteen years ago, I hardly ever read Psalm 23, or John 10, without one of Keller's vivid images coming to mind. I wholeheartedly recommend the book to any Christian who would like a new perspective on one of the most well-known, and best-loved passages in all of Scripture.
When it comes to understanding the full significance of the shepherd/sheep analogy, used in Scripture for the relationship between God and His people, there is simply nothing like the perspective of an actual shepherd, who also loves the Lord. Since I first read this book, perhaps fifteen years ago, I hardly ever read Psalm 23, or John 10, without one of Keller's vivid images coming to mind. I wholeheartedly recommend the book to any Christian who would like a new perspective on one of the most well-known, and best-loved passages in all of Scripture.
December 15, 2014
learned so much about sheep behavior and how similarly dumb sheep and I are
May 5, 2023
Fantastic. I’ll read this one again, maybe even a second time this year.
February 19, 2021
I’ll keep this review simple. This book is a must-read.
December 29, 2024
4.25 stars
This was great—definitely one I will re-read in the future.
This was great—definitely one I will re-read in the future.
Audio book source: Hoopla
Story Rating: 4.25 stars
Narrators: Maurice England
Narration Rating: 4 stars
Genre: Non-fiction
Length: 3h 43m
March 22, 2020
I enjoyed how the author likened his time as a sheep farmer to David’s time being a shepard.
I also liked the way that sheep husbandry was likened to parts of Psalm 23.
I also liked the way that sheep husbandry was likened to parts of Psalm 23.
March 11, 2024
It’s good to be a sheep when Jesus is your Shepherd 🥹🥹
October 23, 2015
This was a wonderful, inspirational book!! I could recommend it to anyone I know. The author, Phillip Keller, wholeheartedly sets out to completely make you understand what each part of Psalm 23 truly means. That passage of scripture is one that we all know by heart, but after reading this book you'll view those 6 verses in a whole new light.
* It reminded me that I belong to Him, even with my sinful downfalls.
* It made me think about how we really are like sheep, trustfully following our Shepherd.
* It taught me to keep pursuing after God's will and to forget my own.
* It made me realize that I am part of His flock, and even when bad times come, He'll always be there to rescue me.
You'll be amazed at how this sheep farmer writes a book to tell you how much like a sheep that you are. I learned many new things about sheep in this book, and loved that part of the spectrum. Excellent choice of book for anyone who is interested!
"He is the owner who delights in his flock…"
-page 35
* It reminded me that I belong to Him, even with my sinful downfalls.
* It made me think about how we really are like sheep, trustfully following our Shepherd.
* It taught me to keep pursuing after God's will and to forget my own.
* It made me realize that I am part of His flock, and even when bad times come, He'll always be there to rescue me.
You'll be amazed at how this sheep farmer writes a book to tell you how much like a sheep that you are. I learned many new things about sheep in this book, and loved that part of the spectrum. Excellent choice of book for anyone who is interested!
"He is the owner who delights in his flock…"
-page 35
January 21, 2022
“It is no mistake that Jesus calls us His sheep”
This book beautifully breaks down Psalm 23 verse by verse, and naturally describes the parallels between a shepherd and his sheep, and God and His people.
I never knew how much care sheep required, how needy and helpless they can become without the care of a attentive Shepard. And how the Shepard deeply cares for the flock and how he gives up his own life to protect and help the flock flourish. I was in awe reminding myself that this is exactly what Jesus does for you and me.
The details the author included amazed me and he effortlessly connected them to the attentive care of Jesus in our lives. I couldn’t recommend this book enough.
This book beautifully breaks down Psalm 23 verse by verse, and naturally describes the parallels between a shepherd and his sheep, and God and His people.
I never knew how much care sheep required, how needy and helpless they can become without the care of a attentive Shepard. And how the Shepard deeply cares for the flock and how he gives up his own life to protect and help the flock flourish. I was in awe reminding myself that this is exactly what Jesus does for you and me.
The details the author included amazed me and he effortlessly connected them to the attentive care of Jesus in our lives. I couldn’t recommend this book enough.
December 24, 2024
This is the best book I have ever read. My affection for the Lord has never been brought out more than while reading this book. I was convicted as I have never been before. I cannot recommend this book enough to someone who is truly searching for truth, the better life, and the warm embrace of a Father who loves them.
Second read review:
Another read through for the residency 🤸♀️ and I will always be happy to start again!
This is my greatest desire summed up:
“But because they belong to Christ and have recognized Him as Lord and Master of their lives, their owner and manager, they are permeated by a deep, quiet, settled peace that is beautiful to behold.”
And
“There can be a habitual awareness of Christ within me, empowering me to live a noble and richly rewarding life in cooperation with Him. As I respond to Him and move in harmony with His wishes, I discover that life becomes satisfying and worthwhile. It acquires great serenity and is made an exciting adventure of fulfillment as I progress in it. This is made possible as I allow His gracious Spirit to control, manage, and direct my daily decisions. In fact, I should deliberately ask for His direction even in minute details.”
Second read review:
Another read through for the residency 🤸♀️ and I will always be happy to start again!
This is my greatest desire summed up:
“But because they belong to Christ and have recognized Him as Lord and Master of their lives, their owner and manager, they are permeated by a deep, quiet, settled peace that is beautiful to behold.”
And
“There can be a habitual awareness of Christ within me, empowering me to live a noble and richly rewarding life in cooperation with Him. As I respond to Him and move in harmony with His wishes, I discover that life becomes satisfying and worthwhile. It acquires great serenity and is made an exciting adventure of fulfillment as I progress in it. This is made possible as I allow His gracious Spirit to control, manage, and direct my daily decisions. In fact, I should deliberately ask for His direction even in minute details.”
Read
March 20, 2025Ummmm so I was just supposed to know that nearly all, if not all, of the sheep in a shepherd's flock are ewes ?! So what I'm hearing is Psalm 23 is for the girls. This is the best news ever. Goodnight
February 14, 2026
February 2026
Phenomenal on a reread. Easily in my Top 10 Christian non-fiction books of all time, maybe even my Top 5. A favourite new and highly convicting quote: “The only real, practical measure of my appreciation for the goodness and mercy of God to me is the extent to which I am, in turn, prepared to show goodness and mercy to others. If I am unable to forgive and extend friendship to fallen men and women, then it is quite certain I know little or nothing in a practical sense of Christ’s forgiveness and mercy to me.” So true, and if I applied this to all areas in my life where I identify the lack or immaturity of ANY virtue I wish to find in myself upon self-examination, I’d probably grow and mature in my Christian walk a lot faster. Kyrie eleison, Christe eleison, Kyrie eleison, dona nobis gratiam.
August 2024
This book exceeded all of my expectations. It really came at the right time, and has edified me and grown my faith—and in very specifically needed ways as I prepare to return to campus this fall. It deeply encouraged me with the truths of Jesus’s love, care, protection, and provision for me!
I went in thinking, “Yeah sure, it’ll be neat to see the parallels between physical shepherding and Ps 23.” So I wouldn’t say with skepticism or anything, but just expecting a “nice” read. But it completely surprised me and blew me away, with its exposition of the profundity and depth of love and care to be found in Jesus our Good Shepherd. ❤️🙌🏻❤️🙌🏻
I have gone ahead and ordered the complete “Shepherd Trilogy” so that I can continue learning all that Mr Keller has to teach me in this same vein!
Phenomenal on a reread. Easily in my Top 10 Christian non-fiction books of all time, maybe even my Top 5. A favourite new and highly convicting quote: “The only real, practical measure of my appreciation for the goodness and mercy of God to me is the extent to which I am, in turn, prepared to show goodness and mercy to others. If I am unable to forgive and extend friendship to fallen men and women, then it is quite certain I know little or nothing in a practical sense of Christ’s forgiveness and mercy to me.” So true, and if I applied this to all areas in my life where I identify the lack or immaturity of ANY virtue I wish to find in myself upon self-examination, I’d probably grow and mature in my Christian walk a lot faster. Kyrie eleison, Christe eleison, Kyrie eleison, dona nobis gratiam.
August 2024
This book exceeded all of my expectations. It really came at the right time, and has edified me and grown my faith—and in very specifically needed ways as I prepare to return to campus this fall. It deeply encouraged me with the truths of Jesus’s love, care, protection, and provision for me!
I went in thinking, “Yeah sure, it’ll be neat to see the parallels between physical shepherding and Ps 23.” So I wouldn’t say with skepticism or anything, but just expecting a “nice” read. But it completely surprised me and blew me away, with its exposition of the profundity and depth of love and care to be found in Jesus our Good Shepherd. ❤️🙌🏻❤️🙌🏻
I have gone ahead and ordered the complete “Shepherd Trilogy” so that I can continue learning all that Mr Keller has to teach me in this same vein!
October 30, 2025
I loved this book!! Psalm 23 is just a beautiful psalm with no context that the context of what tending sheep looks like makes it even more meaningful! This book helped me truly see God as our shepherd and gave me much more reverence for that word! I am so thankful to be a little sheep and have a good shepherd who knows me and loves me fully and wants the abundant life for me! If you like metaphors in scripture like I do, you need to read this book immediately because of how beautifully it gives you a visual picture of our walk with the Father!
October 12, 2011
The Bible makes numerous analogies, regarding Gods people as sheep, and he as the Shepherd. Jesus was, for example the good shepherd, who layed down his life for his sheep.
No analogy is perfect. Still some analogies are a better fit than others. As W. Phillip Keller abundantly illustrates in his book, the Bible's Shephed/Sheep analogy is one of the best, and the lovely and beloved Psalm 23 perhaps its most sublime discourse.
But most people nowadays, have only passing familiarity with the life and habits of sheep. Keller, a former Sheherd himself sheds amazing new light to us who are "sheep-ignorant" that deepens one's appreciation for the analogy and brings to the believer additional comfort as we trust in our Shepherd.
One interesting turn in Kellers book is how he treats verses 5-6. I had always looked at these as a transistion from the sheep/shepherd analogy to a guest/host analogy. "You prepare a table for me..." Many have taught this psalm this way. Keller however treats this second half of the psalm as a continuation of the sheep/shepard analogy. He views the psalm as taking the reader through a year in a sheep's life, and the table, he likens to a messa--- a flat table of land that sheep are broght to, after some preparation, to graze contentedly. The head then, that is annointed with oil, remains a sheep's head... for which oil is applied to keep away the pesky insects that bother the sheep.
Is he right to continue the analogy in this manner. Well, I've thought about it, and you know it makes sense.
But either way, Keller's book will bring you new appreciation for this Psalm and indeed for the Lord, who I pray is your shepherd.
A nice easy read, that is very much worth the effort.
No analogy is perfect. Still some analogies are a better fit than others. As W. Phillip Keller abundantly illustrates in his book, the Bible's Shephed/Sheep analogy is one of the best, and the lovely and beloved Psalm 23 perhaps its most sublime discourse.
But most people nowadays, have only passing familiarity with the life and habits of sheep. Keller, a former Sheherd himself sheds amazing new light to us who are "sheep-ignorant" that deepens one's appreciation for the analogy and brings to the believer additional comfort as we trust in our Shepherd.
One interesting turn in Kellers book is how he treats verses 5-6. I had always looked at these as a transistion from the sheep/shepherd analogy to a guest/host analogy. "You prepare a table for me..." Many have taught this psalm this way. Keller however treats this second half of the psalm as a continuation of the sheep/shepard analogy. He views the psalm as taking the reader through a year in a sheep's life, and the table, he likens to a messa--- a flat table of land that sheep are broght to, after some preparation, to graze contentedly. The head then, that is annointed with oil, remains a sheep's head... for which oil is applied to keep away the pesky insects that bother the sheep.
Is he right to continue the analogy in this manner. Well, I've thought about it, and you know it makes sense.
But either way, Keller's book will bring you new appreciation for this Psalm and indeed for the Lord, who I pray is your shepherd.
A nice easy read, that is very much worth the effort.
March 17, 2025
Reread and I didn't even realize it. I don't remember reading this ten years ago!
My local book club read it and it was short, somewhat tedious in places, yet overall quite good. I enjoyed the structure of following the sheep along a route and through the seasons.
We need books like this to keep our understanding of poetic meaning inherent in metaphor alive and active.
My local book club read it and it was short, somewhat tedious in places, yet overall quite good. I enjoyed the structure of following the sheep along a route and through the seasons.
We need books like this to keep our understanding of poetic meaning inherent in metaphor alive and active.
February 3, 2021
Incredible book! It will change the way you will read Psalm 23. In matter of fact, it will change the way you view Jesus, our Shepherd, and His interaction with us, His sheep!
July 9, 2024
It was so good. I’m so grateful for each chapter walking through a line of one of the most well-known psalms. Each time this psalm is discussed or brought to mind, I feel that I have a much deeper understanding & picture in my mind of what it truly means. So grateful for Keller’s experience & writing. This book made me love & appreciate God so much more. Please read it!!!!!
“And from the sheep’s standpoint it is knowing that the shepherd is there; it is the constant awareness of his presence nearby that automatically eliminates most of the difficulties and dangers while at the same time providing a sense of security and serenity. It is the sheep owner’s presence that guarantees there will be no lack of any sort; that there will be abundant green pastures; that there will be still, clean waters; that there will be new paths into fresh fields; that there will be safe summers on the high tablelands; that there will be freedom from fear; that there will be antidotes for flies and disease and parasites; that there will be quietness and contentment.” 171-172
“In the Christian’s life there is no substitute for the keen awareness that my Shepherd is nearby. There is nothing like Christ’s presence to dispel the fear, the panic, the terror of the unknown.” 44
“And from the sheep’s standpoint it is knowing that the shepherd is there; it is the constant awareness of his presence nearby that automatically eliminates most of the difficulties and dangers while at the same time providing a sense of security and serenity. It is the sheep owner’s presence that guarantees there will be no lack of any sort; that there will be abundant green pastures; that there will be still, clean waters; that there will be new paths into fresh fields; that there will be safe summers on the high tablelands; that there will be freedom from fear; that there will be antidotes for flies and disease and parasites; that there will be quietness and contentment.” 171-172
“In the Christian’s life there is no substitute for the keen awareness that my Shepherd is nearby. There is nothing like Christ’s presence to dispel the fear, the panic, the terror of the unknown.” 44
July 19, 2023
This book is very beautifully written. Keller helps you to see the true depth and relationship the Shepherd has with His sheep. This book is a simple read, and the reader must take caution as it would be easy to skim. However, Keller invites you to take time to see the depth in the simplicity. This is one of my favorite reads and one I plan on reading many times over.
March 29, 2025
Easy 5 ⭐️!!!!!!! This book is so good. Psalm 23 is a classic, who doesn’t love it?? But reading this book and gaining a deeper perspective into what each verse truly means in the context of a shepherd and a sheep, makes the Psalm SO much more meaningful and sweet!! I teared up so many times! I can’t shut up about this book and need everyone to read it!
I’m so glad I get to be a little sheep of the Good Shepherd who loves and cares for me abundantly!!!
I’m so glad I get to be a little sheep of the Good Shepherd who loves and cares for me abundantly!!!
February 22, 2024
Christ as our Shepherd! Everything He does is driven by his unending care and love for us! This book was so helpful in explaining quite literally what the Psalmist meant as he describes being a sheep in the Good Shepherd’s care (and how similar we truly are to sheep, yikes) Too good.
October 14, 2024
Absolutely wonderful. Nothing settles my spirit and makes me content like meditating on Psalm 23. In this little book, Keller convinced me afresh that everything in my life that has looked absolutely horrible will, somehow, by God's kindness, be turned around for good. Those wilderness periods that seem like lost years were actually deepening seasons where He never left me a minute. "As I can see all of this in retrospect I realize that for the one who is truly in Christ's care, no difficulty can arise, no dilemma emerge, no seeming disaster descend on the life without eventual good coming out of the chaos. This is to see the goodness and mercy of my Master in my life. It has become the great foundation of my faith and confidence in Him" (p. 128).
See also: Life without Lack by Dallas Willard.
See also: Life without Lack by Dallas Willard.
October 9, 2023
This book did all for me that the introduction promised- “…fresh truth and exciting glimpses of God’s care and concern for him will flood over his being. Then he will be brought into a bold, new appreciation of the endless effort put forth by our Savior for His sheep. Out of this there will then emerge a growing admiration and affection for the Great Shepherd of his soul.” A deep continuation of the ever growing admiration, love and confidence in the care and holiness of my Shepherd!!!! A gift!
January 15, 2024
So simple, but also so deep. Thankful for a Good Shepherd and for the way He cares for us and loves us. A book I will be talking about//telling people about for awhile.
February 28, 2024
A most vivid picture of psalm 23!
July 27, 2024
a beautifully written book. like i was reading psalm 23 for the first time. WOW
August 26, 2022
Weepy teary in awe this book struck every cord in my soul. This is a must read and I hope to read it every year!!!!!! Truly changed my view of God in the way He intimately cares and sees every single one of us. PLEASE READ!!!!!!
December 13, 2023
“The flock and their owner can pass through appalling suffering together.”
I read this book with youth group (we read approximately a chapter a week, hence why it took me so long 🤣😁) and it’s GREAT!! In the beginning of starting this book, I memorized Psalm 23, and of course every chapter in the Bible is special, but it was kinda just…another chapter with David analogies that I didn’t understand. But this book really brought light to what he was likely saying!!
If you want to get closer to what God means, with VERY good and clear analogies I totally recommend!!! Or if you just want to know more about sheep 🤣🤣 I never realized how complicated they were
So yeah, I definitely recommend, and it helped me look deeper into certain verses when doing my own studies. I mean this author took six verses and made a twelve chapter, 170 page book out of it. And I wasn’t bored, ONCE ☝🏻 Each chapter had many “*gasp * 🫢🥹🥹” moments, and it was great. Chefs kiss, go get yoself a copy
I read this book with youth group (we read approximately a chapter a week, hence why it took me so long 🤣😁) and it’s GREAT!! In the beginning of starting this book, I memorized Psalm 23, and of course every chapter in the Bible is special, but it was kinda just…another chapter with David analogies that I didn’t understand. But this book really brought light to what he was likely saying!!
If you want to get closer to what God means, with VERY good and clear analogies I totally recommend!!! Or if you just want to know more about sheep 🤣🤣 I never realized how complicated they were
So yeah, I definitely recommend, and it helped me look deeper into certain verses when doing my own studies. I mean this author took six verses and made a twelve chapter, 170 page book out of it. And I wasn’t bored, ONCE ☝🏻 Each chapter had many “*gasp * 🫢🥹🥹” moments, and it was great. Chefs kiss, go get yoself a copy
November 14, 2024
I really enjoyed this simple, insightful perspective on psalm 23. Powerful analogies and a book that I think I will return to many times, especially in this season of life, when really deep theological books sound overwhelming.
January 1, 2025
Psalm 23 is one of the most beloved psalms, and the author does an excellent job diving deeper into each verse. The comparisons to how we are like sheep were particularly thought-provoking and gave me a fresh perspective. A great read for anyone wanting to better understand this psalm.
Audiobook source: Hoopla
Narrator: Maurice England
Length: 3h 43m
October 23, 2019
A book that deepened my understanding of this beloved psalm.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,671 reviews