The Shepherd’s Goodness

The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want.   Psalm 23:1

David may have written this Psalm when he was young, but you can hear words of experience come through. He knew the Lord as his Shepherd. God had provided times of rest, both physically and spiritually for him. When in need of refreshment and restoration, the Lord provided food and renewed strength. The Lord led him to do right and led him when the way was dark as well as when he came close to death. 

David’s exuberance over God’s loving-kindness to him showed his certainty in God’s care for him in life and death. You can experience this same confidence, dear Believer. Christ came to earth to show first-hand what His followers mean to Him. The references to Him as the Good Shepherd carry all the same meaning for you as they did for David. These verses touch the hearts of believers today just as they have resonated with the people of God for the past 3000 years.  

When you enjoy health, wealth, prosperity, and joy, it may be easier to see God’s goodness. However, it takes faith to recognize God’s mercy and grace in times of sickness or poverty, bereavement or calamity. May you be encouraged by the words in David’s psalm: “The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want.” Pray that these words touch the hearts of those who have yet to understand the peace that comes from knowing the Good Shepherd. He is the One who can be trusted. 

Today’s Verse: Psalm 23:1

The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. 

All Scripture quotations and audio are from the ESV® Bible (The Holy Bible, English Standard Version®), copyright © 2001 by Crossway, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved.

Recommended for further reading: Psalm 23

The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. 
2     He makes me lie down in green pastures. 
He leads me beside still waters. 
3     He restores my soul. 
He leads me in paths of righteousness 
    for his name’s sake. 

4 Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, 
    I will fear no evil, 
for you are with me; 
    your rod and your staff, 
    they comfort me. 

5 You prepare a table before me 
    in the presence of my enemies; 
you anoint my head with oil; 
    my cup overflows. 
6 Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me 
    all the days of my life, 
and I shall dwell in the house of the Lord 
    forever. 

All Scripture quotations and audio are from the ESV® Bible (The Holy Bible, English Standard Version®), copyright © 2001 by Crossway, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved.

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