Psalm 23
What does Psalm 23 really mean and can it be applied to our lives in this digitised, computerised 21st century.
The Lord is my shepherd. I shall not be in want.
The 'qualities' on a good shepherd's CV will undoubtedly include the ability to patiently direct and selflessly protect his sheep. Like all shepherds, God is gentle in guiding us. (Isaiah 40:11). This does not mean we’re left without free-will because a large part of being made in God’s image is to be able to choose (like He can). We make a conscious decision to be totally dependent on God because we know from experience that He will lead us in the right ways.
With Him at the helm, we'll always be filled and satisfied. (11 Peter 1:3.) Walking ahead, a shepherd leads his flock to ‘green pastures’. However, when he needs to round them up he may walk behind or even beside them. When they’re weak or injured a shepherd carries his sheep. On days when I can’t seem to see God ahead of, or beside me, it's because He is holding me in His arms.
