In Psalm 23, we’re described as sheep. Sheep are a liability. They are vulnerable and hopeless on their own. The shepherd is the protector and provider for the sheep. He is everything to them. Jesus is described as that Shepherd for us.

Our Shepherd Satisfies

David writes, “I shall not want.” David is not talking about subjectively feeling like he is safe but objectively knowing that he is safe. When we have Jesus as our Shepherd, it doesn’t mean we will have everything we want; it means we will lack nothing. Jesus’s shepherding of our souls is perfectly calibrated for our needs, and more than anything else, we need to be conformed to the likeness of Jesus. To that end of becoming more like our Savior, we lack nothing.

When you have deep desires or physical needs that aren’t met, this doesn’t mean God has stopped caring for you. In times like these, we must learn to say even through tears, “The Lord is my Shepherd. I shall not want.” Jesus has given us every reason to trust Him. If He has laid down His life for you, can there be any way He is lacking in His care for you? He satisfies us because He gives us Himself.

Our Shepherd Restores

Sheep get themselves into trouble in many ways. We, too, are constantly getting ourselves into a spiritual mess. Our souls need to be restored. Jesus does this for us time and time again. He does not abandon you. You may think you’re too much for Jesus, but He is better at restoring than you are at needing to be restored. He is better at saving than you are at sinning. You’re not wearing Him out!

Our Shepherd Accompanies

In v. 4, the tone changes. David recognizes that there are dark places in the world. In moments of profound suffering, we know we are led by our good Shepherd. Notice that we are walking through the valley, not staying there forever. We will emerge from the hard times. There’s hope.

Also notice that David stops talking about God and begins talking to God, addressing Him directly. We can turn to our Shepherd when life is hard. He’s here for us. He is the only shepherd who knows what it’s like to be a sheep. He knows the way through the dark valley because He went through it Himself.

Our Shepherd Befriends

Jesus befriends us, hosts us, and seats us at His table. God shows wonderful hospitality by offering us a full plate with plenty to eat and drink. He invites us into His life and up to His table. He pulls us into His very heart. In the midst of an age when spiritual enemies surround us, Jesus is not embarrassed to be seen with us. He is happy to be publicly known as yours.

In other religions, people pursue goodness and mercy, but with Jesus, goodness and mercy pursue us. Let’s rest in that hope today!