
1The Lord is my shepherd, I lack nothing.
Psalm 23:1
Clearly, our lives in this fallen world are dominated by fear and worry. Our only genuine source of hope is God. Thankfully, those who follow God have the Lord as our Shepherd. Psalm 23 is our topic for devotional study this week. The verses of Psalm 23 can provide comfort for our everyday living and support for our daily faith journey. Throughout Scripture, sheep, shepherds, and flocks are mentioned a combined 500 times! In fact, sheep are the most frequently mentioned animals in the Bible.
Psalm 23 encourages us with at least three truths about God as our Shepherd. First, He provides all we need: “I lack nothing” (v. 1). This doesn’t mean our wish list is His agenda. God’s provision for us is based on His wisdom and sovereign purposes. But as His sheep, we can be sure His “goodness and love will follow me all the days of my life” (v. 6).
The Lord is my Shepherd [to feed, to guide and to shield me],
Psalm 23:1 AMP
I shall not want.

Today’s Prayer: Oh Lord, our Shepherd, calm our hearts with the truths that David proclaims. In Your wisdom You provide all we need, guiding us in righteousness and dwelling with us through both dark and peaceful times.
Today’s Action: Which verse of this psalm best describes your current circumstances? Are you enjoying green pastures? Or, are you in the depths of a dark valley? In either case, rejoice and trust in God’s loving care.