Psalm 23-1

## Theological Reflections on Psalm 23:1

At the beginning of Psalm 23, David demonstrates his deep trust in God with the words, "The Lord is my shepherd, and I will not lack." This passage is not only a praise of God, but also a profound reflection on God's role in the lives of believers.

The meaning of the shepherd

The metaphor of the "shepherd" had a rich meaning in ancient Near Eastern cultures, symbolizing leadership, protection, and provision. A former shepherd, David was well aware of the responsibilities and challenges of being a shepherd. He likened God to a shepherd, emphasizing God's sovereignty and guidance in his life. When we call Jehovah "my shepherd," we acknowledge his control over our lives and are willing to rely on him for guidance and care[1][3][4].

A promise that is not lacking

The phrase "I will not lack" expresses faith in God's provision. This is not only a material need, but also a spiritual satisfaction. David believed that because Jehovah was his shepherd, he would not lack anything necessary. This belief reminds us that God will help and support us in times of need, no matter how circumstances change[2][5][9].

Trust and dependence

This verse emphasizes the intimate relationship between believers and God. When we acknowledge Jehovah as our shepherd, we also express our complete trust in Him. Just as sheep depend on shepherds, believers should rely on God to guide and protect themselves. In life, we may face various challenges, but Psalm 23 reminds us that God is always with us and will meet our needs, even in difficult times[6][10][12].

conclusion

Psalm 23:1 is not only a word of comfort, but also an expression of an attitude towards life. It reminds us to trust God as the Shepherd in our lives and to rely on Him for guidance and provision in our daily lives. Through this trust, we are able to face life's challenges and find true fulfillment and peace in God's love. Let us proclaim every day, "Jehovah is my Shepherd, and I will not lack."

Citations:

[1] https://www.workingpreacher.org/commentaries/revised-common-lectionary/fourth-sunday-of-easter-2/commentary-on-psalm-23-3

[2] https://www.ccbiblestudy.org/Old%20Testament/19Psa/19GT023.htm

[3] https://www.bibleref.com/Psalms/23/Psalm-23-1.html

[4] https://zh-hant.theologyofwork.org/old-testament/psalms-and-work/book-1-psalms-141/gods-presence-in-our-struggles-at-work-psalm-23

[5] https://www.gotquestions.org/I-shall-not-want.html

[6] https://cdn-news.org/News.aspx?EntityID=News&PK=000000000f005f7ee3d17fdd1b0954429c860b75e0f37930

[7] https://www.crossway.org/articles/what-does-psalm-231-mean/

[8] https://www.theology.cuhk.edu.hk/tc/publication/newsletter/issue76/article

[9] https://www.ibelieve.com/christian-living/i-shall-not-want-what-psalm-23-teaches-us-about-god-s-sufficiency.html

[10] https://openthebible.org/article/psalm-23-explained-line-by-line/

[11] https://www.pureflix.com/insider/psalm-23-meaning-analysis-of-this-powerful-scripture

[12] https://radical.net/podcasts/pray-the-word/the-lord-is-our-shepherd-psalm-231-3/

[13] https://thebiblesays.com/en/commentary/psa+23:1

[14] https://www.forerunner.cc/assets/files/prayer/Level%20l/1%20Knowing-God-1-Ps23.pdf

[15] https://www.ziondaily.com/4292