I'm the Sheep, in need of the Shepherd

Psalm 23 (Amplified version)

The Lord is my Shepherd (to feed, guide, and shield me), I shall not lack.
He makes me lie down in (fresh, tender) green pastures; He leads me beside the still and restful waters.
He refreshes and restores my life (my self); He leads me in the paths of righteousness (uprightness and right standing with Him--not for my earning it, but for His name's sake).
Yes, though I walk through the (deep, sunless) valley of the shadow of death, I will fear or dread no evil, for You are with me; Your rod (to protect) and Your staff (to guide), they comfort me.
You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies. You anoint my head with oil; my (brimming) cup runs over.
Surely or only goodness, mercy, and unfailing love shall follow me all the days of my life, and through the length of my days the house of the Lord (and His presence) shall be my dwelling place.

I love the subtleties of "He leads me in the paths of righteousness (uprightness and right standing with Him--not for my earning it, but for His name's sake). That means a ton to me right now...the "not for my earning it..." part.

If I pass my exam in January, it will not be for my earning it. I am trying to break away from the reliance on self that says, "I will do all I can and then He will do the rest. I just have to set the stage for God..." That is NOT TRUE! It is ALL Him. So I am reliant, and I need to be walked through that Valley. Please, Jesus, prepare me for this horrifying test coming up next month. I don't know what to do, I am rather paralyzed.