Psalm 23 – The Lord is My Shepherd

When I was young, this Psalm confused me.  The Lord is my shepherd I shall not want.  Why wouldn’t we want the Lord to shepherd us?  I knew this Psalm was often said at funerals, so maybe the psalmist didn’t want to die?  I didn’t know – I was confused.  Everyone else seemed ok with it, so I never asked.  One day, I read this passage in the NIV, “The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not be in want.”  Suddenly it clicked.  When the Lord is our shepherd, we are well taken care of – we will want for nothing!

This Psalm encourages us to have confidence in the Lord’s care for us.  First it describes the image of a shepherd caring for his sheep.  He provides for our needs, guides us, and protects us.  Then the psalmist describes an image of a host caring for his guests.  He again provides for us, offers us His grace and mercy, and invites us to be in relationship with Him all the days of our lives.

Enjoy His presence today.  Enjoy His provision and care.  Praise Him for all the blessings He lavishes upon us!

I’m praying for you!

Pastor Amy