The Good Shepherd

Earlier this month, we touched briefly on Psalm 23, reminding us we lack nothing. For the next couple of days, we’re going to take a closer look at this beloved verse as we continue talking about living a life without lack and having everything we need in the sufficiency of God’s Kingdom. As we work through specific verses of the Psalm, I encourage you to commit them to memory so you can meditate on them and really allow their truth to sink into your spirit! 

The Lord is my Shepherd, I lack nothing. We talked yesterday about how we have a good Shepherd and how in His love, we have everything that we need. 

He makes me lie down in green pastures. When sheep lie down in green pastures, it’s because they’re full. A pasture is where flocks go to eat and once they are satisfied, they lie down and take a nap, feeling completely satiated and at ease. For me, it might be like saying that I’m lying down in a field of pizzas. I’ve eaten all that I can and I am content. Whatever it is for you, just know that the Good Shepherd is going to fill you up with all that is good. He will never leave you hungry or wanting — He will meet your needs so that you have more than enough! 

He leads me beside quiet waters. He refreshes my soul. God quenches the thirst of your soul. All the craziness, sleeplessness, and relentless drive comes to a halt in His presence. Beyond that, He heals and restores the wounds of your soul. Life is hard and sometimes we are dealt a painful blow. If you hit your thumb with a hammer, you are going to be aware of that thumb for the next few days; it’s going to call attention to itself. Ultimately though, Jesus heals it, just like He does everything else. He heals our hearts. No matter how deep and painful the wound, He will restore you so that you can love and give love again. This is a remarkable truth of the human condition!

He guides me along the right paths for his name’s sake. Friend, righteousness is the natural outgrowth of a healed soul! When you are satisfied, whole, and resting in the sufficiency of Jesus, you can’t help but do the right thing by your neighbor. Just spending time in the presence of the Good Shepherd and resting in the security that He brings causes you to become more like Him. As you follow Him, watch Him, and listen to His loving voice, you will be filled with His Spirit and your life will become a reflection of His goodness!