The Lord Is My Shepherd

THE LORD IS MY SHEPHERD

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text: Psalm 23:1-6

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

Supporting Texts:

John 10:11, Isaiah 40:11, Ezekiel 34:11-12, Hebrews 13:20-21, Revelation 7:17

INTRODUCTION:

Psalm 23 is one of the most beloved passages in the Bible, written by David, who himself was a shepherd before becoming king. He understood the deep responsibility of a shepherd to care for, guide, and protect the sheep. In this psalm, David declares that God is his Shepherd, signifying that he is under divine care, provision, and guidance.

A shepherd’s duty is to ensure that the sheep are well-fed, protected from danger, and led to peaceful pastures. In the same way, God, as our Shepherd, watches over us, provides for us, and leads us in the paths of righteousness. This truth gives us confidence that we are never alone, never abandoned, and never without divine provision.

Today, we will examine what it truly means to have the Lord as our Shepherd and the blessings that come from following Him. If we surrender to His leading, we will experience peace, security, and fulfilment in every area of life.

1. THE SHEPHERD PROVIDES FOR HIS SHEEP

God supplies every need of His children.

a) He provides for our physical needs (Psalm 23:1).

Those who trust in Him shall not lack.

b) He satisfies the hungry soul (Matthew 6:31-33).

When we seek first His kingdom, He meets our needs.

c) He gives us spiritual nourishment (John 6:35).

Jesus, the Bread of Life, satisfies our souls.

d) He leads us to places of peace and refreshment (Psalm 23:2).

His provision includes rest and renewal.

e) Biblical Example: God’s provision of manna in the wilderness (Exodus 16:14-15).

He miraculously supplied food for Israel daily.

2. THE SHEPHERD LEADS AND GUIDES HIS SHEEP

God directs the steps of His people.

a) He leads us in the right path (Psalm 23:3).

God’s guidance keeps us from going astray.

b) He gives wisdom to those who seek Him (Proverbs 3:5-6).

Trusting in Him brings clear direction.

c) Jesus is the Good Shepherd who calls His own (John 10:3-4).

His voice leads us to safety.

d) He protects us from taking the wrong turns in life (Isaiah 30:21).

The Holy Spirit corrects and instructs us.

e) Biblical Example: God leading Israel with the pillar of cloud and fire (Exodus 13:21-22).

His presence guided them daily.

3. THE SHEPHERD PROTECTS HIS SHEEP FROM HARM

God is our defender and shield.

a) He is with us in times of danger (Psalm 23:4).

Even in the valley of death, we fear no evil.

b) His rod and staff bring comfort and protection (Psalm 23:4).

His discipline and care keep us safe.

c) No weapon formed against us shall prosper (Isaiah 54:17).

The enemy’s plans cannot prevail against us.

d) Jesus laid down His life for His sheep (John 10:11).

His sacrifice ensures our eternal safety.

e) Biblical Example: David protecting his sheep from the lion and the bear (1 Samuel 17:34-35).

Just as David defended his flock, God fights for His people.

4. THE SHEPHERD RESTORES AND HEALS HIS SHEEP

God renews and strengthens us.

a) He restores our souls when we are weary (Psalm 23:3).

God revives and strengthens us.

b) He heals our broken hearts (Psalm 147:3).

The Shepherd binds up wounds.

c) He brings us back when we stray (Luke 15:4-6).

He searches for the lost sheep.

d) He gives us fresh anointing (Psalm 23:5).

Our cups overflow with His blessings.

e) Biblical Example: Jesus restoring Peter after his denial (John 21:15-17).

He forgave and reinstated him into ministry.

5. THE SHEPHERD GIVES ETERNAL SECURITY

God’s care extends beyond this life.

a) Goodness and mercy follow His sheep (Psalm 23:6).

His blessings are lifelong.

b) He prepares a place for us in eternity (John 14:2-3).

Heaven is our ultimate home.

c) No one can snatch us from His hand (John 10:28).

Our salvation is secure in Him.

d) He will guide us safely into eternal rest (Revelation 7:17).

The Lamb will lead us to living waters.

e) Biblical Example: The thief on the cross (Luke 23:42-43).

Jesus assured him of paradise.

CONCLUSION:

The Lord as our Shepherd means that we are never alone, never without provision, and never without protection. He provides, leads, protects, restores, and gives us eternal security. When we submit to His guidance, we experience peace and fulfilment.

Today, let us reaffirm our trust in the Good Shepherd. No matter what challenges we face, He is always there, watching over us, leading us, and ensuring that we lack nothing. May we continue to follow Him faithfully, knowing that His goodness and mercy will never fail us.

PRAYER POINTS:

1.  Father, thank You for being my Shepherd and my provider.