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When Psalm 23:1 came to mind as I read my Bible, it struck me in a different way and on a deeper level than ever before. As we each go through difficult times of testing, our Faith has no choice but to grow. I believe that the Holy Spirit was drawing me to this verse of scripture for a reason. God insisted that I saw it and understood what it meant with “Spiritual Eyes.”
I discovered that the “LORD is my Shepherd” is the meaning of one of God’s names in the Hebrew scriptures, which is “YAHWEH ROHI.” We can begin a life changing journey by discovering more about God’a character, that is revealed through His names. Psalm 23:1 is a profound declaration of trust and contentment in God. David acknowledges the LORD as his shepherd because he could easily relate to especially considering his own experience as a shepherd himself. He knew that the shepherd’s responsibilities were to guide, protect and provide for their sheep. The sheep are dependent entirely on the shepherd for their needs.
We like David calling on the Lord as our shepherd, we express absolute reliance on God’s Guidance, Protection and Provision. In stating “I lack nothing”, David is expressing complete confidence in God’s ability to meet ALL of his needs. Notice this is not about getting everything we want, but rather trusting God to provide everything essential for our well-being, both physically and spiritually.
This name “Yahweh Rohi” helps us to understand that God takes full responsibility for all our needs. Just as a wise and good shepherd cares for his sheep, so the Lord provides everything we need to flourish. I know that’s easy to say when everything is going well. But understand that our circumstances DO NOT change who God is. His truth remains constant no matter what. So, as we apply this to our lives, let us Trust in God’s Guidance by observing what Proverbs 3:5-6 encourages: “Trust in the Lord with all our heart and lean not on our own understanding. In all our ways acknowledge Him, and He will make our paths straight.” We should Rely on God’s Provision. A shepherd ensures that his sheep have everything they need to survive and thrive. David confidently states, “I lack nothing” because he’s trusting on God’s provision. Philippians 4:19 echoes this promise saying “God will supply ALL our needs according to the richest of His Glory in Christ Jesus.”
Finally, we can Rest in God’s Protection. A shepherd protects his flock from dangers such as predators and harsh weather. Similarly, God protects us from physical and spiritual harm. Psalm 121:7-8 assures us that the “Lord will keep us from all harm and watch over our coming and going both now and forever more.” Therefore, trusting in protection means we can live without fear, knowing He’s watching over us. That’s what it means to “Live Un-Afraid with God as Our Shepherd.”
Lord God we thank you for your continuous provisions and care over our lives. As we walk through the darkest valleys of life, we can rest on your promises to never leave or forsake us. Teach us to be complete in you, lacking nothing. In Jesus name. Amen
Pastor Andrea (aka Rev. Andie)
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