JANUARY 31
Psalm 23:1, “The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want.”
Psalm 23:5, “My cup overflows.”
This psalm is one of the most beloved and recited passages in all the Bible. I’ve read it at funerals and directed hospice patients to the promise of verse 4 many times: “even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me.” What wonderful reassurance that is to those who are walking in life’s last steps!
The author of the psalm, King David, had himself been a shepherd. He provided and protected his father’s sheep and recounted how “when a lion or a bear came and carried off a sheep from the flock, (he) went after it, struck it and rescued the sheep from its mouth” (1 Samuel 17:34-35). David understood what it took to take good care of the sheep.
With that understanding, David wrote about God’s compassionate care. In his shepherding of us, God provides nourishment and rest. He uses his “rod and staff” to defend the sheep from predators and guide them from danger. He is ever present, providing comfort and reassurance. He knows his sheep personally, speaking to a close and intimate relationship.
God does these things in an above and beyond fashion. A common question we asked of our hospice homes is “do you have everything you need?” Similarly, God so provides for us so that we “shall not want” (Psalm 23:1). God, who abounds in grace and mercy, fills our cups to overflowing through his provision (Psalm 23:5). In God, we have a strong and loving Shepherd who takes the very best care of us. We can trust Him always.
“Whatever be the believer’s position, he is even now under the pastoral care of the Lord.”—Charles Spurgeon
Application Questions: The Lord is your shepherd. Because He’s provided all that you need, you needn’t want (Psalm 23:4; 2 Peter 1:3). Because of the riches of His grace, your cup overflows (Psalm 23:5; Ephesians 1:8). Is that how you see it? Read again through the psalm and consider the various ways the Lord is lovingly shepherding you.
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