Member Reviews
Adevotionual and inspirational book and interpretation of the 23 Psalms. I am sure everyone has a different take. I looked at it just another way to add to looking at the Psalm, for meditation. A good book.
This book is beautifully written. Psalm 23 is one of the most familiar passages of Scripture, yet the author pulls out truths and lessons from this Psalm that I had never found before. Use this book as a daily devotional, or read it in one sitting, then read it again. The insight I received about Psalm 23 from this book is a treasure.
I received a free copy of this book via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Psalm 23 is fantastically well researched and written but the language may not be accessible for everyone.
The book itself works it's way through a much loved, well known Psalm whilst referencing other parts of the Bible and many other writers, poets and commentators. It is very thorough, providing extensive commentary.
I can't say I particularly enjoyed the read, but nonetheless I learned things and it offered some perspectives on the Psalm that I had never considered.
The language however is complex and archaic at points, suited to an older reader possibly.
Most anyone who's been in church any amount of time can recite Psalm 23 from rote. When you hear something enough it's easy to think you "know it" already. David Roper in his line by line elaboration on the scripture breathed new life and meaning into this amazing passage of scripture for me. I don't think I'll ever view it the same way again.
Psalm 23 is one of my favorite Psalms and one of my favorite scriptures to reference. While this Psalm only has 6 scriptures, it contains a life time of information. Roper does an excellent job in this book of breaking down each scripture and discussing each scripture. The quotes provide a different tidbit of information and Roper recites multiple other scriptures throughout. What a great reminder of our Good Shepherd who wants to walk with us through our Darkest Valley and is with us each and every day. This is a great read for anyone Christian or non-Christian. I think there is so much explanation that can help lead to understanding throughout this book.
I received this book for an honest review from NetGalley.
I received an ARC of this book from Discovery House Publishers via NetGalley, this review is my personal opinion.
Psalm 23 by David Roper
When I read this book the first I read it too fast, I found that even do this book was short had so many wonderful truths. So, on the second time, I actually did take my time to digest and reflect on what David Roper shares about the Psalm 23, many of us if maybe not know by heart, at least once have heard this particular psalm, since it is well known. But I must say, that I was amazed by the deepness beyond this verse. I am not sure if was the years of knowing this or just take the message behind this psalm for granted.
Each chapter feels like a journey, and I feel that is to know that good shepherd David wrote so many years back. I like how David Roper talks from his own experience and how everything on this book has so many bible verses united feels like a big puzzle.
I believe this book is must read and use as a bible study for everyone, old Christians, new ones and for groups. It would take you to a deeper knowledge of God and who he is.
This is some of the quotes I like: “His pursuit is not a reward for our good, but the result of His decision to love. He is driven by love, not by our beauty. He is drawn to us when we have done nothing right and when we have done everything wrong (especially when we have done everything wrong)”.
“Prayer moves what we know from our heads to our hearts; it’s our hedge against hypocrisy, the way by which we begin to ring true. Our perception of truth is always ahead of our condition. Prayer brings us more into conformity; it bridges the gap between what we know and what we are.”
“The most perfect human love cannot satisfy us. That’s because our human hearts crave for a relationship deeper and more lasting than anything possible in this world. We were made for God’s love and without it, we sink into loneliness. The darkness, the breakdown of human ties, the limitations and losses of human affection lead to that higher friendship, that larger, more permanent love”.
Truly grateful to Discovery House Publishers for the ARC of this book, a really great one.
I'm always glad when I find a book on theology that is basic yet fresh. Roper is obviously well read and he accompanies and strenghtens all his thoughts and theories with quotes and poems by other (christian and old) authors. This makes Roper's work immensly rich, profound and easy to read. Though the book tackles basic issues like our need for salvation, trusting in God and especially trusting God while suffering, it does so in a deep, soul-satisfying way. Not many authors have been able to speak to my spirit like Roper has done. He obviously knows what it is to suffer and has tasted the utter darkness of the valley of death he is writing about.
But I also noticed a tendency of the author to radicalize his statements. I strongly disagree with his notion that most of life is a dark valley instead of green pasture. Of course life is hard, but often it is our point of perspective that makes the difference.
Other than some other minor points I would disagree with I find this book incredibly helpful and encouraging. Especially if you have known suffering and hardship, you will want to read this book. It is a little spring of living water.
I thank Netgalley and Discovery House Publishers for an ARC to read and review.
The 23rd Psalm has long been one of the most referenced and favorite Psalms among Christians. Most Christians have probably heard or read this Psalm literally hundreds of times. And yet, David Roper, has added a newness and depth to it that is both refreshing and meaningful.
Going through the Psalm one verse at a time, Roper offers his commentary, cites many other Scripture passages related to it, as well as what other authors have said about the verse. A short book, this should be read slowly and thoughtfully to gain the most benefit.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book, and recommend it highly to others!
Many thanks to NetGalley and Discovery House for allowing me to read an ARC of this book in exchange for an unbiased review. All opinions expressed are my own.
Thanks for this opportunity to read this book by David Roper. Psalm 23 is so familiar yet the analysis by Mr. Roper is also enlightening in many ways. We need a shepherd, and we need to be reminded that the shepherd will take care of us, providing for all of our needs. Life for us is very uncertain, but our eternal life is assured.
My only concern about this book were that some of the quotes are very dated. Even though they were very appropriate, they might not appeal to younger readers. In spite of that, I would highly recommend this book.
Psalm 23 offers hope and comfort to many along life's journey. While the psalm is familiar, author David Roper manages to help the reader discover some deeper truths that may not be evident at surface level in his book, "Psalm 23." He succeeds in helping the reader to trust more deeply in the Lord who is "my" Shepherd. The book is also rich with quotes from spiritual mentors who have gone before, adding to its depth and meaningfulness. This isn't a book to just whip through and set down. It's a book meant to be read slowly and thoughtfully, set down and pondered, prayed through, and then picked up again. It's a book meant to be savored, just like the 23rd Psalm. In fact, I appreciate the fact that while it's a book about the 23rd Psalm, readers are encouraged to go right back to the original text and not just take the author's word for it. Readers will definitely emerge with a refreshed perspective and renewed appreciation for this beloved Psalm.
* Note: I received a copy of this book from NetGalley in exchange for my honest review. The opinions are my own.
He had good insight and things to say regarding Psalm 23, however his chapters were too long. I feel like he unloaded the whole dump truck in each chapter instead of sticking to the point. I had to keep reminding myself what the chapter was supposed to be about.
I received this book free from the publisher for the purpose of an honest review.
Inspirational devotional on each part and section of Psalm 23. Recommended and well-written, the Good Shepard!
I reviewed a copy of the book through NetGalley.