The Lord is my shepherd, I lack nothing. Psalm 23:1 NIV
Read Psalms 23
As children attending Sunday School, I recall that we were expected to learn Bible verses. We would study them at home throughout the week, stand before church on Sunday morning, and recite what we learned. I know I’m not alone; Samuel Clemons (Mark Twain) must have had a similar challenge as he recounts the experience in The Adventures of Tom Sawyer; Tom struggles to memorize Bible verses. He chooses part of the Sermon on the Mount, specifically the Beatitudes, because they are some of the shortest. His attempt to recite them goes comically awry:
“Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are they that mourn, for they shall…shall what?
We used the King James Version, so I memorized today's verse: "The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want.” Though committed to mental recall, I failed to grasp this verse's theological complexity, which provides context for all the other verses to follow. In the Lord, we have everything we need.
God’s gracious gifts are abundant and multifaceted; as the good shepherd cares for His sheep, God lovingly tends to our needs, and His provision extends beyond physical needs—it encompasses our spiritual, emotional, and relational well-being. Here are a few ways Jesus, our good shepherd (John 10:11-15), provides:
He supplies our daily necessities—food, shelter, clothing. Jesus reminds us not to worry about these things but to seek God's kingdom first. Matthew 6:25-34 tells us not to be anxious about material needs; as God cares for the birds and flowers, He cares for us.
Just as green pastures sustain sheep, God's Word nourishes our souls. Regularly reading and meditating on Scripture helps us grow spiritually (Psalm 1:2-3).
He leads us beside still waters—places of peace and rest. Through prayer, the Holy Spirit, and wise counsel, He guides our decisions and paths (Proverbs 3:5-6). We are not to rely on our understanding but trust Him in all our ways, and He will direct us in righteousness.
Jesus comforts us in times of sorrow, anxiety, and loss. His presence brings solace and healing (Psalm 23:4).
Jesus provides fellowship with other believers. We find support, encouragement, and accountability within the body of Christ (Hebrews 10:24-25). We come together in community to love and care for one another, helping each other to persevere in faith.
The guidance of the Holy Spirit gives our lives purpose. Following Him, we discover our unique calling and contribute to His kingdom (Ephesians 2:10). We are God’s workmanship, created for good works, and we are to live out our purpose in Christ.
Gracious Father,
We lift our hearts to You—the Good Shepherd who leads us, cares for us, and provides abundantly. We echo the words of David: “The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want.” In You, we lack nothing.
Thank You for the green pastures where Your Word feeds our hungry souls. May we feast on its truth, finding sustenance and growth.
Guide us beside still waters. When life’s currents threaten to overwhelm, remind us of Your peace that surpasses understanding.
Comforter, be near those who mourn and carry burdens too heavy to bear alone. May Your presence bring healing and hope.
We thank You for the fellowship of believers—Your Church, the family You’ve woven together. In community, we find encouragement, accountability, and shared purpose.
Holy Spirit, lead us in our unique callings. Illuminate our paths so that we may contribute to Your kingdom’s work.
Trusting in Your goodness and compassion, we bring those things causing us anxiety before You. We relinquish them to You, secure in the knowledge that You will provide.
Today, may we remember we genuinely lack nothing in You. We pray in the name of Your precious Son, Jesus the Christ. Amen.
Blessings,
Pastor Tim
