~ Psalm 23:1–3
David begins with a declaration of sufficiency: “The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want.” The Hebrew word for want means lack or need. Because the Lord is his Shepherd, David knows he lacks nothing.
Look at how the Shepherd provides:
- “He makes me lie down in green pastures.” Sheep will not rest unless they are safe, full, and free of fear. God provides not just food, but rest.
- “He leads me beside still waters.” Still waters symbolize refreshment and peace not turbulence, but calm.
- “He restores my soul.” The word restore (Hebrew: shuv) means to bring back, refresh, or renew. God doesn’t just care for the body, He heals the inner life.
- “He leads me in paths of righteousness.” Thriving isn’t random wandering. It’s walking in God’s ways, which lead to life and health.
Applied to biblical health, Psalm 23 reminds us that our well-being flows from the Shepherd’s care. In times of trouble, we can burn ourselves out with fear, striving, and constant effort to secure safety or health.
But David shows us the opposite: thriving begins with trust, rest, and following the Shepherd’s lead.
- When we need nourishment, He brings us to green pastures.
- When we need peace, He brings us to still waters.
- When we feel drained, He restores our soul.
- When we lose direction, He guides us in the right path.
This isn’t just survival. Under the watchful care of the Shepherd, we thrive. And notice: He does this “for His name’s sake.” Our thriving brings glory to God, showing the world that He is a good Shepherd who cares for His flock.
So if you feel weary or restless, hear this promise: you don’t have to be your own shepherd. You already have One. Rest, trust, and let Him restore your soul.
Prayer: Good Shepherd, thank You that I shall not lack. Lead me to green pastures and still waters, and restore my soul when I feel weary. Teach me to follow Your paths of righteousness, and let my thriving bring glory to Your name. Amen.
