The Lord Is My Shepherd, I Shall Not Want

THE LORD IS MY SHEPHERD, I SHALL NOT WANT

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text: Psalm 23:1-6

Psalm 23:1 – “The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want.”

Supporting Texts: John 10:11, Ezekiel 34:11-16, Philippians 4:19, Isaiah 40:11, Hebrews 13:20-21

INTRODUCTION:

Psalm 23 is one of the most beloved passages in Scripture. In just six verses, it captures the heart of God’s care and commitment to His people. David, once a shepherd boy, beautifully expresses his confidence in God as the ultimate Shepherd—one who provides, protects, leads, and loves unconditionally.

In a world filled with uncertainty and want, this declaration, “The Lord is my Shepherd, I shall not want,” brings deep comfort and assurance. It speaks of a personal relationship with God and the satisfaction that comes from His divine provision.

This verse reminds us that when God leads your life, you lack nothing essential. Your soul is nourished, your path is guided, and your future is secure. Let us now explore the depths of what it means to have the Lord as our Shepherd.

1. THE SHEPHERD CARES FOR HIS SHEEP

The heart of a true shepherd is tender and sacrificial toward his flock.

a) He knows each sheep by name

God is intimately aware of your needs, burdens, and identity (John 10:3).

b) He feeds and sustains His sheep

He ensures that your spiritual and physical needs are met (Ezekiel 34:14).

c) He tends the weak and heals the broken

The Shepherd binds the wounded and lifts the fallen (Isaiah 40:11).

d) He never abandons His sheep

Even in danger, He stands by them, unlike a hireling (John 10:11-13).

Biblical Example: Jesus fed the multitudes in the wilderness, demonstrating both care and compassion for the physical and spiritual needs of the people (Matthew 14:13-21).

2. THE SHEPHERD PROVIDES WITHOUT FAIL

When God is your Shepherd, lack cannot define your life.

a) He provides rest and refreshing

He leads you beside still waters and restores your soul (Psalm 23:2-3).

b) His provision is timely and sufficient

He gives daily bread and meets needs at the right moment (Matthew 6:11).

c) He supplies spiritual nourishment

God fills the hungry heart with His Word and Spirit (John 6:35).

d) He is committed to your fullness, not your emptiness

“You shall not want” is God’s seal of provision (Philippians 4:19).

Biblical Example: Elijah was fed by ravens and later by a widow in Zarephath—God ensured he lacked nothing during the famine (1 Kings 17:1-16).

3. THE SHEPHERD GUIDES INTO RIGHT PATHS

The direction you follow in life determines your destiny.

a) He leads with wisdom and clarity

God orders the steps of the righteous (Psalm 37:23).

b) He keeps you from paths of destruction

His rod and staff correct and protect you (Psalm 23:4).

c) His presence assures safety in uncertainty

Even in dark valleys, He walks with you (Isaiah 43:2).

d) He leads for His glory and your blessing

His guidance brings honour to His name and peace to your heart (Psalm 23:3b).

Biblical Example: The Israelites were led by God through the wilderness with a cloud by day and fire by night (Exodus 13:21-22).

4. THE SHEPHERD PROTECTS FROM DANGER

A good shepherd shields his sheep from harm and devourers.

a) He defends against enemies

The shepherd fights off wolves and lions (1 Samuel 17:34-36).

b) He watches over you day and night

God never slumbers nor sleeps (Psalm 121:3-4).

c) His presence dispels fear

With Him, you fear no evil (Psalm 23:4).

d) He surrounds you with divine covering

Your cup runs over in the presence of your enemies (Psalm 23:5).

Biblical Example: Daniel in the lions’ den was protected by the Lord, his Shepherd, who shut the mouths of the lions (Daniel 6:21-22).

5. THE SHEPHERD ENSURES A GLORIOUS END

The Shepherd not only cares for today—He also secures your future.

a) Goodness and mercy follow you always

His goodness is your daily companion (Psalm 23:6).

b) He prepares a table of celebration

Honour replaces humiliation when the Shepherd is near (Psalm 23:5).

c) He gives eternal security

You will dwell in His house forever (John 10:28-29).

d) He finishes what He starts in your life

He leads you all the way to glory (Philippians 1:6).

Biblical Example: The prodigal son returned, and the father—like a good shepherd—welcomed him with restoration, celebration, and full inheritance (Luke 15:20-24).

CONCLUSION:

The Lord as your Shepherd is not just a poetic metaphor—it is a living, daily reality for the believer. His care is personal, His provision unfailing, His guidance sure, His protection powerful, and His promise eternal. When He leads, you shall not want.

Let your heart rest in the truth of Psalm 23. You are not alone, forgotten, or forsaken. You are deeply loved and led by the Shepherd of your soul. Trust Him today with every need and follow Him into your divine destiny.