The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want.

Picture the calm, familiar opening of Psalm 23: “The Lord is my shepherd.” These words paint not just a scene of gentle care, but speak of a living Person—one who knows, leads, and loves. While God is often called the Shepherd of Israel (Psalm 77:20), here we sense a more personal touch. This “Lord” points us to Christ, the Good Shepherd, who laid down His life for the sheep (John 10:11; Genesis 49:24). Jesus did not step into this role by accident, but was appointed and equipped for it—able to seek out every stray, understand every sorrow, and guard against every threat (John 10:27-29).

Notice how David quietly claims this Shepherd as his own—“my Shepherd.” There’s heart and assurance in that little word. Christ can rightfully claim every one of His sheep: they are His by the Father’s gift (John 6:37), His by the price He paid, and His by the gentle power of His calling. But here, the relationship runs both ways. The believer trusts, follows, and delights in belonging to Him. This is not just knowledge about a shepherd; it is joy in a Shepherd who never leaves or forsakes.

What rests in the heart of this Psalm is a simple, sturdy promise: “I shall not want.” This doesn’t mean getting everything we wish for, but it does mean lacking nothing we truly need—either for our daily life or our eternal good (Philippians 4:19). The Shepherd knows what is best; He feeds us, clothes us with His righteousness, gives rest for our souls, and guides us beside quiet waters (Psalm 23:2). Even in times of uncertainty, His flock is safe in His hands.

So, let this assurance lift your heart today. No true sheep of Christ goes unnoticed or neglected. Whatever you face, your Shepherd walks ahead of you, provides for you, and—most wondrous of all—calls you His own.

Verses Referenced:

• Psalm 23:2
• Psalm 23:1
• Psalm 77:20
• Genesis 49:24
• John 10:11
• John 10:27-29
• John 6:37
• Philippians 4:19

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