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The Shepherd: Experiencing Psalm 23
Is it possible that the solutions to your problems can be found in a 3000-year-old piece of ancient Hebrew writing? For many people, worry, anxiety, depression, and fear are continuous feelings. All too often, these concerns are crippling, keeping us from the life God has called us to live. Is there any hope against all this darkness? The Twenty-third Psalm is more than a psalm that comforts in death; it gives confidence in life. Join James Collins as he shares the biblically-backed secret to living with true contentment, peace, and security. Don’t just merely read Psalm 23, experience it with The Shepherd. Get your copy today.
- GenresChristian
130 pages, Paperback
First published May 17, 2025
6 people are currently reading
2006 people want to read
About the author
James Collins
10 books253 followersJames is a follower of Jesus, author, evangelist, retired U.S. Army Chaplain, husband, and dad. His latest book, The Overcomer, was released on September 23, 2024.
James says, "My calling is to be an effective communicator of God's Word." He has a passion to lead people into a growing relationship with Jesus Christ. His writings have been featured in publications such as Chicken Soup for the Soul, Stars & Stripes, Baptist Press, Good News Press, Faith and Freedom News, The Baptist Standard, The California Southern Baptist, The Louisiana Baptist Message, Southwest Kansas Faith & Family, The Baptist New Mexican, The Baptist Digest, and Prophecy in the News. He and his wife share their home with their three extraordinary children, three dogs, and a lifetime collection of books.
James says, "My calling is to be an effective communicator of God's Word." He has a passion to lead people into a growing relationship with Jesus Christ. His writings have been featured in publications such as Chicken Soup for the Soul, Stars & Stripes, Baptist Press, Good News Press, Faith and Freedom News, The Baptist Standard, The California Southern Baptist, The Louisiana Baptist Message, Southwest Kansas Faith & Family, The Baptist New Mexican, The Baptist Digest, and Prophecy in the News. He and his wife share their home with their three extraordinary children, three dogs, and a lifetime collection of books.
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Displaying 1 - 19 of 19 reviews
May 6, 2025
I heard James Collins on the radio and thought I would give his book a try. I was not disappointed. He takes the reader through a familiar and beloved Psalm expounded with Old and New Testament scriptures to explain God's many promises to his flock. Whether you are a mature Christian or have a calling upon your heart to seek God's truth, The Shepherd will surely deepen your faith and understanding of God's loving nature and His desire to bless his children with an abundant life.
June 19, 2025
I am always eager to read anything I can get my hands on concerning Psalm 23. I have said, many times, that this great passage is more than a Psalm for the dead, but is a Psalm for the living.
Bro. Collins does an amazing job with the text, holding true to a balanced interpretation of the text. I felt that his material was more than adequately researched. What I loved most about the book, without a doubt, was the highly relatable illustrative examples he used throughout each chapter. It really made the time-tested and truly loved text come alive for me.
For this cause alone, I believe that any reader would enjoy reading this well written book on the Shepherd’s Psalm.
Bro. Collins does an amazing job with the text, holding true to a balanced interpretation of the text. I felt that his material was more than adequately researched. What I loved most about the book, without a doubt, was the highly relatable illustrative examples he used throughout each chapter. It really made the time-tested and truly loved text come alive for me.
For this cause alone, I believe that any reader would enjoy reading this well written book on the Shepherd’s Psalm.
May 9, 2025
The Shepherd is a tremendous book by a very talented author. James Collins writes in such a way that makes you feel like you are having a conversation with him. Filled with insights about the 23rd Psalm, The Shepherd is a book that is difficult to put down. Everyone should read this little book.
June 14, 2025
James Collins has written an extraordinary book in The Shepherd: Experiencing Psalm 23.
When I received my copy in the mail, I opened it with anticipation; the book's cover was velvety like the nicer of the bristol or vellum sketch pads that I used to draw on as a young artist, and the cover had a photo of a lamb on it. The physical book seemed rather exquisite, and I wondered if the writing could really compare to the quality of the packaging.
But I was not disappointed. I am not a big fan of nonfiction. I like to write it, and I like to read memoir, but there have only been a few nonfiction volumes that I have really enjoyed, particularly ones that were theological in nature. I love the gospel, but find God more in fiction than in explanation.
Here, however, in The Shepherd, I was reintroduced to The Lord. And the writer really brought me face to face with God. I felt in reading the book that I was communing with God in prayer. It was a very peaceful feeling, and I'd read the book again to know God's truth afresh and share time with him.
If you are a Christian wanting encouragement, or if you know someone who wants and needs a message to help them to know Jesus, I highly recommend this outstanding book.
One never knows what one will find in the pages of a new book: entertainment, suspense, romance, humor, pathos or enlightenment. The Bible is the Word of God, and not as a substitute, but to complement it, The Shepherd helps show how to reach out to the One True God, and it is a clear path beside still waters, a path to Heavenly peace.
When I received my copy in the mail, I opened it with anticipation; the book's cover was velvety like the nicer of the bristol or vellum sketch pads that I used to draw on as a young artist, and the cover had a photo of a lamb on it. The physical book seemed rather exquisite, and I wondered if the writing could really compare to the quality of the packaging.
But I was not disappointed. I am not a big fan of nonfiction. I like to write it, and I like to read memoir, but there have only been a few nonfiction volumes that I have really enjoyed, particularly ones that were theological in nature. I love the gospel, but find God more in fiction than in explanation.
Here, however, in The Shepherd, I was reintroduced to The Lord. And the writer really brought me face to face with God. I felt in reading the book that I was communing with God in prayer. It was a very peaceful feeling, and I'd read the book again to know God's truth afresh and share time with him.
If you are a Christian wanting encouragement, or if you know someone who wants and needs a message to help them to know Jesus, I highly recommend this outstanding book.
One never knows what one will find in the pages of a new book: entertainment, suspense, romance, humor, pathos or enlightenment. The Bible is the Word of God, and not as a substitute, but to complement it, The Shepherd helps show how to reach out to the One True God, and it is a clear path beside still waters, a path to Heavenly peace.
June 11, 2025
I’m grateful for “The Shepherd” by James Collins.
Tackling Psalm 23 as a book project is a worthy pursuit, and Collins delivers a thought provoking, spirit-filled work which helped me see this verse in a new, fresh perspective.
Again, I’m thankful for it.
One of the standout passages included the following quote:
“Shadows do not exist unless there is a light somewhere.”
That’s good.
I have led the worship song “Savior Like A Shepherd Lead Us” numerous times in churches across the Upper Midwest. It hits a little differently now thanks to this book. Here’s the passage which moved me.
“Remember, there is no such thing as wild sheep. If sheep run away, they die. Sheep cannot survive without a shepherd. Still, sheep are stubborn…”.
I know I can be stubborn.
In summary, this part of the book hit home for me:
“But the truth is, He is both. God is tough on sin, but He is tender with sinners. He is like a shepherd who is tough on predators threatening his flock but tender with each sheep, knowing them by name and caring for their every need. This is the right picture of God, and Jesus paints this picture of Himself.”
Collins helps us to inspire us to continuously consider right relationship with God - our Shepherd - and this is a book worthy of your time.
Tackling Psalm 23 as a book project is a worthy pursuit, and Collins delivers a thought provoking, spirit-filled work which helped me see this verse in a new, fresh perspective.
Again, I’m thankful for it.
One of the standout passages included the following quote:
“Shadows do not exist unless there is a light somewhere.”
That’s good.
I have led the worship song “Savior Like A Shepherd Lead Us” numerous times in churches across the Upper Midwest. It hits a little differently now thanks to this book. Here’s the passage which moved me.
“Remember, there is no such thing as wild sheep. If sheep run away, they die. Sheep cannot survive without a shepherd. Still, sheep are stubborn…”.
I know I can be stubborn.
In summary, this part of the book hit home for me:
“But the truth is, He is both. God is tough on sin, but He is tender with sinners. He is like a shepherd who is tough on predators threatening his flock but tender with each sheep, knowing them by name and caring for their every need. This is the right picture of God, and Jesus paints this picture of Himself.”
Collins helps us to inspire us to continuously consider right relationship with God - our Shepherd - and this is a book worthy of your time.
June 26, 2025
A very good study of an importand Bible verse.
June 15, 2025
Another great book by James Collins. Pastor, Evangelist, and former Army Chaplain. He takes us through the 23rd Psalms and talks about shepherds and how they took care of their sheep and how this corresponds with Jesus as the good Shepherd and how he calls and takes care of his sheep, his followers. Biblical, and as always, some humor. You will enjoy this book as well as others by him.
June 12, 2025
This is a beautifully written book. It tells what the lovely Psalm 23 means and describes what exactly, Jesus as our Shepherd truly means. This is a special Psalm to me and many others, as it's read at funerals. The author tells us the true meaning of the Psalm 23, in that it tells of God's rest, protection and guidance, he gives us in the good and bad times. The author also talks about other Psalms too and what being a Child of God really means. The book lifted my heart, mind and soul. And I'm sure you too, will be blessed in reading it. A great book and Author!!
May 5, 2025
This book is so good! I highly recommend it.
June 6, 2025
I absolutely loved being reminded of the Good Shepherd in James Collins’s book, The Shepherd: Experiencing Psalm 23. Growing up amongst sheep, on our family farm, I was reminded again of the beautiful relationship that exists between the shepherd and his sheep. And how that relationship, discovered in Psalm 23 and other parts of the Bible, translates into a confidence we can know in walking under the care, direction, and discipline of our Good Shepherd. James’s book meaningfully covers Psalm 23, looking at each verse, helping readers know and understand the Shepherd narrative in the Bible. I love how he later transitions into the broader picture of the Shepherd and His sheep – specifically referencing Christ as the fulfillment of prophecy – drawing attention to Psalm 22, 23, and 24. And how Jesus is the true Shepherd, willing to die for His sheep. There was so much I was reminded of and encouraged by. Here are a couple gold nuggets:
“These words have comforted many heavy hearts, dried many tears, bandaged many wounds, given courage to the living, and comforted the dying. It is a psalm for all of life.”
“The good news is that David’s Shepherd from three thousand years ago is still our Shepherd today. You can count on the Lord. He will never leave you nor forsake you. His love and care for you are enduring, never changing, and always present.”
“The mere presence of the shepherd puts the sheep at peace. When he is near, they don’t panic or fight. They can lie down in peaceful slumber. It’s the same with you and me. Nothing reduces stress like the presence of the Shepherd.”
“We say all the time, Jesus died for me. He died for you, but you must understand that He died as you. Jesus took our place, the place you and I deserve.”
Those are four of many memorable moments in this beautifully written book. Take time to read it. You won’t be sorry.
“These words have comforted many heavy hearts, dried many tears, bandaged many wounds, given courage to the living, and comforted the dying. It is a psalm for all of life.”
“The good news is that David’s Shepherd from three thousand years ago is still our Shepherd today. You can count on the Lord. He will never leave you nor forsake you. His love and care for you are enduring, never changing, and always present.”
“The mere presence of the shepherd puts the sheep at peace. When he is near, they don’t panic or fight. They can lie down in peaceful slumber. It’s the same with you and me. Nothing reduces stress like the presence of the Shepherd.”
“We say all the time, Jesus died for me. He died for you, but you must understand that He died as you. Jesus took our place, the place you and I deserve.”
Those are four of many memorable moments in this beautifully written book. Take time to read it. You won’t be sorry.
June 15, 2025
The Shepherd provides a unique perspective on the 23rd Psalm by using real-world experiences and solid scriptural references.
I received this book free from the author, publisher, or other source. My only obligation is to provide a fair and honest review.
I received this book free from the author, publisher, or other source. My only obligation is to provide a fair and honest review.
June 4, 2025
“The Shepherd" is a profound book meticulously crafted to inspire transformative change within each reader. It beckons us to deepen our personal relationship with God, illuminating the wisdom found in one of the most cherished Bible chapters, Psalm 23, which speaks to the heart of faith and trust.
The author, through thoughtful analysis, breaks down each verse, providing insightful commentary that reveals new layers of meaning. Collins captivates readers with his unique approach, integrating relatable real-life stories that illustrate the timeless messages of the scripture. These personal narratives not only enhance our understanding but also foster a deeper emotional connection with God, making His presence feel more tangible in our everyday lives.
I wholeheartedly recommend this book to everyone, regardless of where you are on your spiritual journey. It is a source of inspiration that encourages meaningful change and serves as a guiding light in your walk with God. This book is particularly beneficial for new believers seeking a solid foundation, as well as those who have been saved for many years and are looking to deepen their faith even further.
The author, through thoughtful analysis, breaks down each verse, providing insightful commentary that reveals new layers of meaning. Collins captivates readers with his unique approach, integrating relatable real-life stories that illustrate the timeless messages of the scripture. These personal narratives not only enhance our understanding but also foster a deeper emotional connection with God, making His presence feel more tangible in our everyday lives.
I wholeheartedly recommend this book to everyone, regardless of where you are on your spiritual journey. It is a source of inspiration that encourages meaningful change and serves as a guiding light in your walk with God. This book is particularly beneficial for new believers seeking a solid foundation, as well as those who have been saved for many years and are looking to deepen their faith even further.
June 30, 2025
The Shepherd is a heartfelt and personal exploration of Psalm 23, written by James Collins, a pastor and veteran with a deep love for scripture. The book walks readers line by line through the famous psalm, connecting each phrase to stories from the Bible, real-life events, and personal anecdotes. It’s not a theological tome but rather a reflection, aiming to make the beauty and depth of Psalm 23 come alive for the everyday believer. With each chapter, Collins unpacks a single verse or idea, emphasizing God’s love, guidance, and care for His people in a way that's accessible and full of warmth.
Collins writes simply, sometimes with humor, and often with deep emotion. He doesn’t try to impress the reader with scholarship; instead, he reaches for the heart. What stood out most to me was his ability to make ancient words feel fresh. His use of stories like the little boy in the hospital holding his ring finger or the Civil War soldier saved by a song brought me to tears. The message that “the Lord is always with you” is a good one, and it is repeated often.
I also appreciated Collins’s honesty about his own limitations. He says right out that he doesn't know much about sheep, which makes his exploration of shepherding all the more relatable. That humility gives the book a kind of strength. But I also found myself wishing the book went deeper in parts. There’s a lot of comfort here, but not always a challenge. At times, it leaned into sentiment, which was moving.
By the end, I was glad I read it. This book is full of kindness. It doesn’t shout or try to prove anything. It gently reminds you that you’re not alone. I’d recommend The Shepherd to anyone who is hurting, anyone who’s looking for comfort, or anyone who wants to revisit the Psalms with a fresh set of eyes. It’s a good book to give to a friend going through something hard. It’s also a great companion to quiet mornings with coffee and prayer. It won’t shake up your theology, but it might just soothe your heart.
Collins writes simply, sometimes with humor, and often with deep emotion. He doesn’t try to impress the reader with scholarship; instead, he reaches for the heart. What stood out most to me was his ability to make ancient words feel fresh. His use of stories like the little boy in the hospital holding his ring finger or the Civil War soldier saved by a song brought me to tears. The message that “the Lord is always with you” is a good one, and it is repeated often.
I also appreciated Collins’s honesty about his own limitations. He says right out that he doesn't know much about sheep, which makes his exploration of shepherding all the more relatable. That humility gives the book a kind of strength. But I also found myself wishing the book went deeper in parts. There’s a lot of comfort here, but not always a challenge. At times, it leaned into sentiment, which was moving.
By the end, I was glad I read it. This book is full of kindness. It doesn’t shout or try to prove anything. It gently reminds you that you’re not alone. I’d recommend The Shepherd to anyone who is hurting, anyone who’s looking for comfort, or anyone who wants to revisit the Psalms with a fresh set of eyes. It’s a good book to give to a friend going through something hard. It’s also a great companion to quiet mornings with coffee and prayer. It won’t shake up your theology, but it might just soothe your heart.
June 4, 2025
James Collins' book, The Shepherd, is beautifully written, heartfelt, and a treasure to read. From the first chapter until the end, he breaks down each verse of Psalm 23, “The Lord is my shepherd,” providing insight through storytelling. Some of the stories made me laugh, and some deeply touched my heart. As he eloquently shares these stories of a shepherd in a field tending to his sheep, he reminds us that they can’t survive without a shepherd, which brings the scripture, Psalm 23, to a more personal level of understanding. We need our Shepherd to lead us daily, and without Him, we will wander. I loved this quote from The Shepherd: “We, just like sheep, sometimes do not know where we are going or how to get there. That is why we need a Shepherd to guide us on the right path.” I also loved how he addressed one of my deepest concerns, reminding us that God wants us to stop and rest so that we can be restored, rejuvenated, and revived. Rest will help us be better prepared for everything else that needs to be done. When our personal relationship with our Shepherd, Jesus Christ, becomes the focal point of our lives, our hearts are transformed into His likeness. Without Him, we are nothing.
I highly recommend this book to everyone. The profound message written through the pages of “The Shepherd” will touch your heart from the first page to the last. Order your copy today. Take a break to read this excellent book, rest, and allow Jesus to transform your heart.
Thank you, James Collins, for writing such a deeply impactful book. I pray it changes hearts for God's Glory as they come to know their Shepherd, Jesus Christ, in a more personal way.
I highly recommend this book to everyone. The profound message written through the pages of “The Shepherd” will touch your heart from the first page to the last. Order your copy today. Take a break to read this excellent book, rest, and allow Jesus to transform your heart.
Thank you, James Collins, for writing such a deeply impactful book. I pray it changes hearts for God's Glory as they come to know their Shepherd, Jesus Christ, in a more personal way.
June 21, 2025
A Comforting and Insightful Guide Through Life’s Valleys and Still Waters.
The Shepherd: Experiencing Psalm 23 is more than just a reflection on a well-loved passage — it’s a heartfelt invitation to experience the presence of the Shepherd in every season of life. The author takes this timeless psalm and breathes fresh life into it through powerful storytelling, gentle wisdom, and unwavering faith in Christ.
Each chapter offers biblical insight that is both comforting and convicting, drawing the reader closer to the heart of Jesus — not only as the Good Shepherd who laid down His life, but as the Great Shepherd who walks with us daily, and the Chief Shepherd who will one day welcome us home.
The book beautifully addresses the full spectrum of human experience — from moments of peace and rest to times of fear, uncertainty, and pain. Yet through it all, it echoes one central truth: the Lord is enough. His presence is our peace, His guidance our safety, His provision our sufficiency.
Whether you're currently walking beside still waters or trudging through a shadowed valley, this book is a gentle reminder that you are not alone. A truly uplifting and enriching read — one that will speak to your heart and strengthen your trust in the Shepherd’s care. Highly recommended for anyone longing for reassurance, clarity, and deeper intimacy with God.
The Shepherd: Experiencing Psalm 23 is more than just a reflection on a well-loved passage — it’s a heartfelt invitation to experience the presence of the Shepherd in every season of life. The author takes this timeless psalm and breathes fresh life into it through powerful storytelling, gentle wisdom, and unwavering faith in Christ.
Each chapter offers biblical insight that is both comforting and convicting, drawing the reader closer to the heart of Jesus — not only as the Good Shepherd who laid down His life, but as the Great Shepherd who walks with us daily, and the Chief Shepherd who will one day welcome us home.
The book beautifully addresses the full spectrum of human experience — from moments of peace and rest to times of fear, uncertainty, and pain. Yet through it all, it echoes one central truth: the Lord is enough. His presence is our peace, His guidance our safety, His provision our sufficiency.
Whether you're currently walking beside still waters or trudging through a shadowed valley, this book is a gentle reminder that you are not alone. A truly uplifting and enriching read — one that will speak to your heart and strengthen your trust in the Shepherd’s care. Highly recommended for anyone longing for reassurance, clarity, and deeper intimacy with God.
June 29, 2025
I wish everyone could read, “The Shepherd.” I enjoyed it so much. I have known the 23rd Psalm for as long as I can remember. I was amazed to discover the full meaning of the psalm. The Shepherd explains the relationship of the sheep to the shepherd or people to their Shepherd/Savior. I was so blessed to learn about the different ways God loves and takes care of me. I’ve read it twice and am sure to read it again. If you want to read this great book, you can find it on thejamescollins.com.
June 16, 2025
"He Leads Me Beside Still Waters" is a quote from Psalm 23. Dr. Collins describes still waters as the refreshment and love of Christ. If you want to experience still waters today in the form of a book, I would highly recommend the Shepherd.
May 11, 2025
I had no idea there was so much to learn about the 23rd Psalm. Great book!
June 24, 2025
Just brilliant.
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