Finding Comfort in God’s Provision
In a world filled with uncertainty, it’s reassuring to know that God is always looking out for us. Psalm 23:1 reminds us of this truth, saying, “The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want.” But what does it mean to have God as our shepherd?
A Shepherd’s Care
David, the author of this psalm, was a former sheep herder himself. He understood the needs of sheep and the many responsibilities of a shepherd. By comparing himself to a weak, defenseless, and foolish creature, David acknowledges his own limitations and vulnerability. Yet, he confidently declares that God is his provider, preserver, director, and everything.
Belonging to the Lord
As Christians, we can only call ourselves God’s sheep if our nature has been renewed through faith in Him. The Bible describes the unconverted as wolves or goats, not sheep. A sheep is a valuable possession, bought at a great price, and its owner takes great care to protect and provide for it. We must cultivate a spirit of assured dependence on our Heavenly Father, knowing that we belong to Him.
Personal and Present
Notice the personal pronoun “my” in the verse. David doesn’t say, “The Lord is the shepherd of the world at large.” Instead, he emphasizes that God is his shepherd, personally caring for him. The verb tense is also present, indicating that God’s care is ongoing, regardless of our circumstances.
Supplying Our Needs
With God as our shepherd, we can trust that He will supply our needs. His heart is full of love, and He is willing to provide for us. This assurance extends to both temporal and spiritual needs. Just as God feeds the ravens and causes the lilies to grow, He will not leave His children to starve. His grace will be sufficient for us, even when we lack.
Contentment in Christ
The wicked may always want, but the righteous never lack. A sinner’s heart is far from satisfaction, but a gracious spirit dwells in the palace of content. As Spurgeon notes, “I have all things and abound; not because I have a good store of money in the bank, not because I have skill and wit with which to win my bread, but because the Lord is my Shepherd.”
Timeless Truth
This excerpt from Charles Spurgeon’s commentary on The Psalms reminds us of the timeless truth of God’s provision and care. May we cultivate a deeper trust in our Heavenly Father, knowing that He is always looking out for us, and that we shall not want.
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