Last week we began our study of Psalm 23, one of King David's most recognized songs of praise. We then examined its first verse, "The Lord is My Shepherd," which describes David's relationship with his Heavenly Father, and Shepherd. Despite David's earthly rule and kingship himself, he recognized his dependence on his loving and caring Shepherd—the grace-filled Lord of his ancestors, Abraham, Issac and Jacob. We now look at the next verse, "I shall not want."
This is the sentiment of a sheep that is ultimately satisfied with its owner and perfectly content with his circumstances. He is content with the Good Shepherd’s care and consequently does not crave or desire anything more. While it may seem to be easy for the wealthy and powerful King David to be content, he had been harassed repeatedly by his enemy, Saul, as well as his own son, Absalom. His kingship was constantly being challenged by the Philistines and the enemies of Israel. David was obviously a man who had known intense loneliness, hardship, and anguish. Yet he shares that, under the Lord’s care, he “shall not want.”
It’s wrong to draw the conclusion from this statement that the Christian will never experience lack or need. Think about some of the most heroic people of the Bible—Elijah, John the Baptist, the Apostle Paul, and even our Lord Jesus Himself—all of them experienced great adversity and hardship. Based on the teachings of the Bible, we can only conclude that David was not referring to material wealth when he made the statement,“I shall not want.”
As I reflect on this verse, I recall my days on the farm. I specifically remember a neighbor who was the most indifferent person I had ever met. His land was neglected. He gave little or no time to his animals, letting them forage for themselves as best they could, gnawing away at bare red fields and neglected pastures. They fell prey to dogs and coyotes. Shelter to safeguard and protect the suffering cows from storms, sleet, rain and snow was scanty and inadequate. Under their weak and diseased condition, these poor animals were a pathetic sight. I can still see them in my mind, standing at the fence along the road, huddled sadly in little knots, staring through the fence at the rich pastures on the other side.
In all their distress, the heartless, selfish owner seemed callous and indifferent. He simply did not care about their desire for nourishment and safety. He ignored their needs; he couldn’t care less. Why should he; they were just cows, fit only for the slaughter house. Not exactly the picture of a Good Shepherd, who cares for His sheep (or in this case, cows). It's especially sad to see such circumstances for people.
I have known some wealthy and smart business people over the years. Despite their dazzling outward show of success, despite their affluence and prestige, they remain shriveled in their soul and unhappy in life. They are joyless people held in the grip and heartless ownership of the wrong master. By contrast, I have numerous friends who are relatively poor people—who have known hardship, disaster, and the struggle to stay afloat financially. But because they belong to Christ Jesus and have recognized Him as Lord and Master of their lives, they are permeated by a deep, quiet, settling peace that is beautiful. They live productive and joyful, despite their circumstances.
Joy and contentment should be the hallmark of the man or woman who has put his or her affairs in the hands of God. Those under another master will always be restless, unsettled, covetous, and greedy. In contrast, Christians, the Shepherd’s sheep, can stand up proudly and boast, “The Lord is my Shepherd; I shall not want.” Why? Because He is sovereign over all things, and there is no trouble too great for Him as He executes His master plan. He cares for His flock. He loves His sheep for their own sake as well as His personal pleasure in them. The Lord is the owner who delights in His flock. For Him there is no greater reward, no deeper satisfaction, than seeing His sheep contented, well fed, safe, and flourishing under His care. He gives all He has to his flock. He literally lays Himself out for those who are His. No wonder Jesus said, “I came that they may have life and have it abundantly. I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep” (John 10:10-11).
Questions to Ponder
1) When people interact with you, do they experience peace, contentment and joy?
2) Read John 14:15-27. Where is true peace, joy and contentment found?
3) What areas of your life are you still reluctant to submit to Christ Jesus' sovereign authority and leadership? What's holding you back?
4) Do you know someone who is going through difficult circumstances right now and who might need some peace, joy and contentment?