The Lord is My Shepherd

Psalm 23:1-6, “[1] The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. [2] He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters. [3] He restoreth my soul: he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name’s sake. [4] Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me. [5] Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies: thou anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over. [6] Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the Lord for ever.”

This chapter of the Bible is the first one that I remember memorizing as a child. To this day I can still quote it, and it is one of my favorites. I love the first verse where it says, “The Lord is my Shepherd; I shall not want.” The word want does not mean to desire. It means to lack.

When we allow God to lead us in our life like a shepherd leads his sheep, we will never lack what we need. God will take care of us. Many people think they have it rough when in fact their needs are still met. They may not have the nicest clothes, car, house, job, etc., but their needs are still met.

I’ve had the privilege of traveling out of the country before to a very poor area. It is amazing to see how happy people are with so little. It is really eye opening, and it makes you realize how much we have and how blessed we are.

The challenge today is twofold. First, is the Lord your Shepherd? Do you allow Him to lead you or do you wander away from God? Secondly, let us focus on how much we DO have instead of what we DON’T have. It’s amazing how much our perspective on our situation can change with something so simple. God’s Word promises that if we allow God to lead us, He will meet our needs. Philippians 4:19 states, “But my God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus.” Make God your Shepherd today and follow Him.