Posted by Psalm 23:1
“The LORD is my shepherd, I will lack nothing.”
I’ve imagined David as a young shepherd boy being inspired to write this Psalm, as he was in the field contemplating how his care for those sheep was a reminder of God’s care for him. Here David expresses his absolute trust in God; all that he needs has been so perfectly attended to, that he rests content and secure under the care of his Shepherd. Those who know the God of all grace as the great shepherd of their happy condition will sing with the Psalmist; “Know that the LORD is God. It is he who made us, and we are his; we are his people, the sheep of his pasture” (Psalm 100:3).
Jehovah-Raah
To be content is a valuable asset in this world of uncertainty. One of God’s great redemptive names is Jehovah- (Raah or Roi) meaning The Lord my Shepherd. Jesus the Good Shepherd is the Great Shepherd of your soul, with him who has said “ask and you shall receive,” you will lack nothing. He came to earth to lay down His life to become your Good Shepherd. Under the care and guidance of Christ you will never lack provisions or direction.
In a society where people are relentlessly driven by materialism, let’s gain some wisdom from the sheep. They “lie down in green pastures,” and they are “beside quiet waters” with this they are content. Paul writes “But godliness with contentment is great gain. For we brought nothing into the world, and we can take nothing out of it. But if we have food and clothing, we will be content with that” (1 Timothy 6:6-8).
Psalm 34:9-10 clearly states the happy condition of all those who seek the great Shepherd of their souls; “Fear the LORD, you his holy people, for those who fear him lack nothing. The lions may grow weak and hungry, but those who seek the LORD lack no good thing.” I am reminded of my own happy state of having all that I need provided for me if I simply continue to seek God’s Kingdom and Righteous first (see Matthew 6:33).
The Voice of The Good Shepherd
Sheep become familiar with their shepherd’s voice. The sound of his voice has a calming effect on them, they graze secure knowing they aren’t far from the one who cares for them. Sheep aren’t concerned about tomorrow’s sustenance because their shepherd will guide them to the best fields to graze, and fresh water to drink. Their shepherd knows them and their every need, so they follow as a matter of course and are cared for.
You are in the same happy state as those sheep. Jesus is your Shepherd and he always cares for your spirit, mind, and body. You live your entire life under His care and within the sound of His voice. You never lack for His attention, provisions, or direction. Jesus said in John 10:27 “My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me.” Your Shepherd has given his life to secure your eternal health and well-being, His investment is safe; “I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep” (John 10:11).
Is it any wonder that David placed his life in the hands of God as the sheep do with their shepherd? Take time today to contemplate your happy state as a member of The Good Shepherd’s flock. Exhale and relax, enjoy living under His watchful eye, God’s got this. You’re in good hands today and so you will be tomorrow as well, you will lack nothing. Take your rest in Christ, thank Him for His daily care and guidance, bless Him when you awake in the morning and before you retire at night, Be comforted by the sound of His voice, and Be Encouraged! -JSP