“The Lord is My Shepherd”

In Neville Goddard’s teachings, the biblical phrase “The Lord is my shepherd” from Psalm 23 takes on a deeply personal and transformative meaning. Rather than interpreting this verse as a description of an external divine figure leading the way, Neville views it as an allegory for the relationship between the individual and their own imagination—our inner creative power.

1. The Lord as Imagination

For Neville, "The Lord" is not an external deity, but our own imagination. Imagination is the creative power within us that shapes our reality. When the Psalmist says, “The Lord is my shepherd,” Neville interprets this as acknowledging that our imagination (the Lord) is guiding us, leading us to the fulfilment of our desires.

Just as a shepherd leads and cares for their sheep, our imagination (or the Lord) is the force that guides us through life, showing us the way to manifest our wishes. This inner guidance is not passive but active—meaning we must consciously use our imagination to manifest our desires, just as the shepherd actively leads and cares for the sheep.

2. The Shepherd Leads to Green Pastures

Neville interprets the imagery of “green pastures” and “still waters” as the state of mind where we align with our ideal state. Green pastures represent a state of peace, abundance, and well-being, while still waters symbolise a calm and clear mind.

When we align our thoughts with our desires, we enter into this state of harmony, where manifestation becomes a natural flow. The “shepherd” in this context is our ability to enter into a state of imagination that is serene and filled with possibilities. By focusing our thoughts on the desired outcome and remaining in that state of imagination, we find ourselves moving toward the fulfilment of our dreams.

3. Restoring the Soul

Neville teaches that “restoring the soul” refers to the process of renewal and inner transformation. The soul, in this context, represents our subconscious mind. Our imagination has the power to restore and transform our consciousness, shifting us from a state of lack or limitation to one of abundance and possibility.

This restoration happens when we consciously create the state we wish to experience, allowing our inner world to reflect the desires we hold. By doing so, we change our perception, aligning our subconscious mind with the thoughts, feelings, and beliefs that lead to the manifestation of our desires.

4. Walking Through the Valley of the Shadow of Death

One of the most poignant parts of Psalm 23 is the line “though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil.” Neville interprets this as the inevitable doubts and fears that arise when we are manifesting our desires. The valley of the shadow of death represents the difficult and uncertain moments we face during the process of manifestation.

However, just as the shepherd does not abandon the sheep in the valley, our imagination (the Lord) does not abandon us during times of doubt or challenge. Neville teaches that by staying faithful to our inner vision, even in moments of uncertainty, we can overcome these obstacles and continue on the path to realising our desires. The fear of failure, or “evil”, is only a shadow, and it dissipates when we continue to trust in our creative power.

5. The Rod and Staff Comfort Me

The rod and staff of the shepherd represent the tools of guidance and support. For Neville, these tools symbolise the law of imagination—our ability to shape and control our inner world. The rod represents the power of our conscious attention, while the staff represents the guidance of our subconscious mind.

By using these tools, we can navigate through life’s challenges, understanding that our imagination is the source of strength and guidance. Just as a shepherd uses the rod and staff to guide and protect the sheep, we use our imagination to direct our thoughts and beliefs, shaping the experiences we encounter.

6. Preparing a Table in the Presence of My Enemies

Neville teaches that this line represents the abundance and success that can be achieved even in the face of opposition or difficulties. The “enemies” are the limiting beliefs and doubts that arise in our minds when we attempt to manifest our desires. Yet, in the presence of these doubts, we are still able to manifest abundance—because our imagination (the Lord) provides us with the means to create the life we desire, regardless of external circumstances.

The “table” prepared before us is symbolic of the bounty and fulfilment that awaits us when we remain focused on our creative power and continue to trust in our imagination.

7. Goodness and Mercy Shall Follow Me

Neville interprets this final line as the natural result of living in alignment with our imagination and creative power. When we remain faithful to our inner vision and continue to manifest through our imagination, goodness and mercy will naturally follow us. Our life will be filled with the fruits of our imagination, bringing us peace, success, and fulfilment.

As we continue to direct our thoughts and beliefs towards the fulfilment of our desires, the universe responds by bringing us the experiences that align with our inner state. The goodness and mercy are a reflection of the power within us that we have consciously directed towards positive outcomes.

Conclusion: The Lord as Our Imagination

Neville Goddard’s interpretation of “The Lord is my shepherd” is a profound reminder that our imagination is the divine force that leads us to the fulfilment of our desires. The Psalm is not about an external God guiding us, but about recognising our own creative power within. By understanding that our imagination is the shepherd, we can confidently walk through life, knowing that our thoughts and beliefs have the power to shape our reality.

Through the power of imagination, we can restore our soul, overcome obstacles, and manifest our desires. The “Lord” is within us, guiding us with every step, and as we align with this creative force, we will find ourselves in a state of peace, abundance, and fulfilment.