[Unboxing Psalm 23: Treasures for Every Believer] My ShepherdSample

I Shall Not Want

In Psalm 23, David wrote truths that expressed how he lived in relationship with the Almighty God, whom he continually worshipped. The first phrase of the psalm speaks about David’s recognition that the one true God, the God of Israel, is a Shepherd who cares for His sheep and gives them security and identity.

Let’s see what the second phrase of the psalm means. It says, “I shall not want.”

The phrase begins with “I”: it refers to something personal. It is assuring that the fact that he will lack nothing will be a consequence of the personal relationship he has with His Shepherd.

This phrase in the New Living Bible version reads, “I have all that I need.” If we were David and we were in a time of great danger and distress hiding in a cave, being chased by Absalom, with the whole nation and the army after us, I think there are many things we might need. I might need not to be chased and be able to return home. I might need to be safe, to be with my family, to have a roof over my head, and not a cave. I’d probably need rest. Many things might be needed in that circumstance, like security, protection, and peace, in addition to material needs. But David is not referring to those needs.

Theologian Vernon McGee explains that what David meant when he said “I shall not want” is that he would never lack the care and supervision of his Shepherd. The Great Shepherd. No matter the circumstances, I will not lack his care. Despite being in a cave, being persecuted, and having nothing, my Shepherd’s care will not fail me. David in this phrase is declaring his dependence on God.

We need many things, but the main thing we should long for is for God to reveal Himself to us – to tell us what is happening during our circumstances so we can understand them. The main idea David gives us is: the Lord is my Shepherd no matter what happens, I don’t need to have anything else beyond Him because I can be confident of His love and care for me. He is my Shepherd. His care will not fail me despite my rebellion, despite my need, despite my circumstances.

Lord, thank You for being my Shepherd and taking care of me all the time. I know that no matter what situation I am in, I can depend on You to take care of me. I will not lack anything in my life. Help me to know You, as David did, to always have the certainty of Your presence in my life.

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