How does Gods’ goodness and care bless his people? The attributes of shepherds provide some answers to this question. David’s primary occupation before he was anointed as successor to Saul as King of Israel was that of shepherd over his father’s flock (1 Sam 16:11). As he pens this Psalm, he reflects on how God leads his people like sheep. What are the benefits of following our God, who is our Good Shepherd? (cf. Jn 10)
A God-led life offers true provision. When we submit to Gods’ sovereignty over our lives, we shall not lack anything we need to follow him no matter the seasons of trial we face. David affirms God was the head of his own life whose provision is always sufficient, thus, “The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want…” (v1). Remember, yielding to God’s plan for our lives requires trust (Prv 3:5-6). When we experience a lack of God’s provisional care, it is often when our lives are self-willed, that leads us to go our own way. The story of the “Prodigal Son” told by Jesus is an excellent example of the point being made here (Lk 15:11-32). We become like sheep who roam off our Good Shepherd’s reservation outside the fence line of his care and protection. This lacking is then felt most intensely when we face the dangers of this world outside of his will.
A God-led life offers spiritual nourishment. David says of God, “He makes me lie down in green pastures…” The imagery here is a shepherd who leads his flock to fresh grass for feeding. Remember, only God knows what we need, when we need it, and where we need it. What he provides to us is life-sustaining. Here is the truth that should give us great joy: While God does provide for our practical needs from things out of creation that supports us in this temporal life, he gives of himself when it comes to our spiritual nourishment and eternal sustainment. Jesus taught the multitudes, “I am the living bread that came down from heaven. If anyone eats of this bread, he will live forever. And the bread that I will give for the life of the world is my flesh” (Jn 6:51).
A God-led life offers spiritual restoration. David continues in describing God’s benefits, “He leads me besides the still waters. (3) He restores my soul” (v2-3). The picture here is of a body of calm waters that produces a tranquil effect because it is undisturbed by currents that cause turbulence and choppy waters. Such a place is safe for rest and cleansing of oneself. Likewise, when we follow Jesus, we receive forgiveness of all our sins forever. His death and resurrection offers us peace with God. Therefore through Jesus we can now enter the rest of God (Heb 4). Like a refreshing glass of cold water in the parched desert, we receive restoration of our souls and freedom for the burdensome heat of our sins and fear of death. He is faithful to cleanse us and his righteousness restores our souls (1 Jn 1:9).
Let us share David’s attitude towards God this week. Abandon self, follow Christ. Do not believe the lies that our thoughts entertain that God’s care is not enough…….that it is not sufficient. Only at the feet of Jesus will we realize we need nothing else, nor will we want anything else but him. We will see him as he truly is and look upon our strong Savior and declare, “The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not want…” He is all I need. Amen.
Blessings,
Dr. Jason S. Price, Th.D.
www.springoflivingwaters.com