Psalm 23: verse 1
The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want.
The relationship illustrated here, between God and man, is one between a sheep and its trusted shepherd. Sheep depend on a shepherd totally for their security and needs. A Christian, likewise, depends on the LORD totally. He knows that his spiritual security and eternal life have been accomplished through faith in Jesus Christ. Therefore, there is nothing to be in want for in the spiritual realm. Since this physical life and temporal concerns are insignificant compared to the glory that awaits those whose inheritance is in heaven, Christians are secure and at peace with their short time in this physical world. They know that all things work for the good of those that love Christ. Nothing in this temporal world occurs without the sovereign control of the father and if God allows it, Christians accept his will without wanting for anything else.
Note that the LORD alone is my shepherd and not political leaders, civil governments, or even church leaders such as popes, bishops, elders, and pastors. Church denominations or creeds are not my shepherd. The LORD and He alone is my Sheppard and I shall not want. In Romans 8:31-39, Paul gives details about the glorious situation that God has reserved for believers.
Praise God that He is our shepherd and we shall not want.
7 comments:
Oh wow.
Yes indeed!
A BIG HEARTY AMEN!
All that I need, I already have.
The rest is but dust... as am I.
The Lord does bless His sheep through His elect shepherds, pastors after His own heart. But He is the chief Shepherd, and when He appears agian, all His under-shepherds "shall receive a crown of glory that fadeth not away". 1 Pet. 5:4
Thanks fr the fine thoughts Jazzy.
Justin says...
What I love to think about in this passage is the titles and positions being employed. The LORD (aka, YHWH, aka the Eternal One) is our shepherd. God, who has everything in and of Himself, is our shepherd. Now, God is our shepherd, basically the lowliest charge a person could have. A shepherd has to protect, provide for, and guide his sheep. This means long nights, scary storms, and frightful fights with beasts. When one of the sheep goes astray, it is the shepherd's responsibility to bring them back. It's not an easy job, and yet, this is YHWH's job, which He chose freely.
And therein can we confidently say, "I shall not want." For indeed, if God is our shepherd, how can we be lacking anything that we need?
Susan, Don, and Justin,
Thanks for adding additional thoughts to this comforting passage. The encouragement is gratifying. I hope to work through this Psalm and learn as I go.
These days, we in Western civilization embrace coveting like it's an art form. It consumes us. We must be intentional if we are to fully accept this familiar, beloved passage.
*snicker* Susan said "butt dust."
Powerful in its simplicity and truth!
Susan
Thanks Susan and Craver.
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