God’s Care • Psalm 23:1-6
By Philip Price
Robert Ketchum shared that a preschool girl once quoted Psalm 23:1 as, “The Lord is my shepherd — that’s all I want.”
Psalms 23, The Shepherd’s Psalm, is commonly associated with grief. While certain psalms are laments, this psalm is filled with joy and does not express fear, doubt, or confusion. David confidently reminds us that, like an attentive shepherd, the LORD guides believers seamlessly from the cradle to the grave, and into eternal life.
God’s Provision (Psalm 23:1-3)
David begins with a testimony: The LORD is my shepherd (v. 1, KJV). The word “LORD” (in all caps) is the Hebrew name for God, “Yahweh.” The title “Lord” (mostly lowercase) can mean simply “Master.” David used the same name God uttered when he said to Moses, I AM WHO I AM (Ex. 3:14), which is a declaration of the essence of the one true God — eternal, faithful, intimate.
David boasts that God is my shepherd. In humility, he was not ashamed to be identified as a lamb. Countless animals are more self-sufficient than sheep. If sheep accidentally roll over on their back, they cannot stand without help. They are dependent on their shepherd. David proclaimed the sufficiency of God by stating I shall not want. A bad shepherd neglects his flock. But, if a good shepherd tends the flock, a nurturing and secure environment is established. Jesus said, I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep (John 10:11, CSB).
God provided for David like a shepherd guides his flocks to green pastures and quiet waters (v. 2). His life was renewed physically and spiritually. He was led along the right paths for His name’s sake (v. 3). God leads us in the right way at the right time, and this exhibits the integrity of his nature.
God’s Protection (Psalm 23:4)
Next, King David expressed his trust in God: Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil (v. 4, KJV). Matthew Henry underscores Christians simply walk through the shadow of death. He explains “the shadow of a serpent will not sting, nor the shadow of a sword kill. It is a valley, deep indeed, and dark, and miry; but valleys are often fruitful, and so is death itself fruitful of comforts to God’s people…they shall not be lost in this valley.”
God guides us with his rod and staff. During the time of King David, sheep herders used a rod — a short club, often carved from a tree root — to defend the flock from predators. A staff — a long stick with a hooked end — was used to pull sheep from danger, prompt sheep to stay on the right path, and draw the sheep close. God protects and rescues His followers.
God’s Preparation (Psalm 23:5-6)
Nothing surprises God. David exclaimed, You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies (v. 5). Suddenly, there seems to be change of venue and a pivot from God’s role as a shepherd to that of a host. Yet, Phillip Keller, a former sheep rancher, views this setting of a table as just another aspect of shepherding. He explains, in the summer, flocks are led to graze on tablelands, which are flat-topped plateaus called mesas. Before the flock arrives, shepherds remove anything that can harm the sheep — poisonous weeds, physical hazards. Consequently, the Good Shepherd is always prepared.
Additionally, the shepherd is prepared to treat the wounds of the sheep. He will anoint their head with oil to provide healing. This refers to the physical and spiritual healing that only God can provide. Furthermore, as sheep suffer through severe heat, they must have their parched throats soothed. As a result, their cup overflows. This is symbolic of the overwhelming joy a relationship with God can produce.
Finally, David rejoices in the divine goodness and mercy (faithful love) of the LORD that will follow him all the days of his life. The shepherd’s care is permanent. I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever (v. 6).
Reflection
Importantly, it must be noted that everyone is not in God’s fold. Jesus declared, I am the gate. If anyone enters by me, he will be saved and will come in and go out and find pasture (John 10:9). Only those who have been born again (John 3:3) can honestly say Jesus my shepherd. Thankfully, we will enjoy eternal life if Christ has transformed us (John 1:12). Is Jesus your shepherd?
Price is the Associational Missions Strategist for the Jackson County Baptist Association, Pascagoula. He is a member of Ridglea Heights Church, Moss Point.
