The Lord Is My Shepherd, I shall not want…
Psalm 23, one of the most quoted and most familiar passages in the Bible. It stands for so many things. Most people use it at a funeral and think of it as a “death” passage. But, it’s actually for all scenarios pertaining to both “life & death.”
This Psalm was quoted by David who for most of his life was on the run from Saul. Hiding in caves, fearing for his life, yet he always knew God was in his corner, even in the darkest days of his life.
We shall not want – is four words but significant in its meaning. When we place our trust in God and His divine plan and will for our lives, and in the world overall, we’re productive in all situations. We can assimilate, maneuver, and walk in faith when we realize that God will never leave us wanting. When we ask, and stand firm in our belief, we will be able to adjust to whatever life throws our way.
Resting in the Lord, is just that…total trust and submission to His will, wisdom and His love. A lot of individuals can let pride get in the way of reason. Some might believe if they give in and ask for help it’s a sign of weakness, and their pride gets in their way. But you have heard it said that Pride often goeth before a fall.
Pride is a “condition” that will at one time in a person’s life (or maybe more than once) rear its ugly head. It’s common to humans, but the common banality is often the same…foolish individuals without God’s wisdom will seek to take care of “themselves” in suffocating situations, where help from others will ease their burden. Sometimes it may be finances sorely lacking…or a trauma drops into your life. These are areas that as Christians we need to believe and accept blessings from God through those He sends into our lives. Sadly, most times pride will alter their senses and instead of accepting help from others, they’ll suffer silently. Or, most especially, they forego asking God for help, the One who could truly help. If we could do things by ourselves then why would we need God? Tell me that? All things connect to God and through Him we receive the balm of His love.
Pride knows no boundaries in terms of financial status, age, or race. It’s something that’s inherent in humans and disproportionate to affirmation of love and trusting in God. For if we trust God, as our loving Shepherd, then “we shall not want” and therefore, pride is a hindrance and an objectionable character in God’s eyes.
Our loving Father knows our heart’s desires, before we do. He knows the needs in which we seek, and the pain we feel…as well as the joy. He is our constant barometer in all aspects of living, and He is our daily bread and living waters.
Seek God, trust God, love God…know God. You will then be able to recite the 23rd Psalm with a newfound confidence that will reach down into your soul truly setting you free!
Amen!
The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want.
He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters.
He restoreth my soul: he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name’s sake.
Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me.
Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies: thou anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over.
Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the Lord for ever.
Psalm 23 (KJV)