Scripture:
“The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want.” – Psalm 23:1 (KJV)
Devotional Thought
Psalm 23 begins with one of the most comforting declarations in all of Scripture: “The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want.” These words, penned by David, flow from a heart that had experienced both the valleys of life and the mountaintops of God’s faithfulness.
When David described the Lord as his Shepherd, he was drawing from his own experience as a shepherd boy. A shepherd cares, protects, guides, and provides for the sheep.
Sheep cannot survive on their own—they are dependent, vulnerable, and easily led astray. In the same way, we too need God’s constant guidance and provision.
The beauty of this verse is its personal nature. David does not say “The Lord is a shepherd,” but my Shepherd. This reveals intimacy, trust, and belonging. God is not distant or detached—He is near, actively leading us with love and care.
Because the Lord is our Shepherd, we lack nothing essential. That doesn’t mean life will always be free from hardship or struggle. Rather, it means that in every circumstance, God provides exactly what we need—peace in chaos, strength in weakness, direction in confusion, and provision in scarcity.
When we rest in the truth that God is our Shepherd, anxiety loses its grip, fear gives way to faith, and contentment takes root in our hearts.
Reflection
Do I trust God as my personal Shepherd, or do I try to lead myself?
In what areas of my life am I struggling to believe that “I shall not want”?
How can I practice resting in God’s provision today?
Prayer
Heavenly Father,
thank You for being my Shepherd.
Thank You for guiding me, protecting me, and providing for me every single day.
Help me to trust in Your care and rest in the truth that I lack nothing when I am with You.
Teach me to find peace in Your presence and contentment in Your provision.
In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Call to Action
Today, pause and repeat Psalm 23:1 throughout your day: “The Lord is my Shepherd; I shall not want.” Each time you feel anxious or worried, remind yourself of this promise and let it bring peace to your heart.
