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Book of Psalms - Chapter 23 - Verse 1

23:1
A Psalm of David. The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want.

Meaning

David, in this psalm, beautifully depicts the Lord as his shepherd, highlighting the deep and intimate relationship he shares with God. By referring to God as his shepherd, David acknowledges God's care, guidance, protection, and provision in his life. The imagery of a shepherd conveys a sense of love, tenderness, and personal attention towards his flock, reflecting God's constant vigilance and care for His people. David's declaration that he shall not want signifies his complete trust in God's ability to meet all his needs, both physical and spiritual. This verse serves as a poignant reminder for believers to entrust their lives completely to God, confident that He will always look after them with love and grace.

Theological Overview

Psalm 23:1, known as "A Psalm of David," holds a deep theological interpretation that has resonated with believers for centuries. The imagery of the Lord as a shepherd and the speaker as His sheep is a powerful metaphor used throughout the Bible to illustrate God's care, guidance, and provision for His people. The phrase "I shall not want" signifies the complete trust and contentment that comes from following the Lord as a faithful shepherd. In this context, "want" does not refer to material possessions but rather to the lack of any good thing that a believer might need. Furthermore, the word study of "shepherd" reveals a deep connection to the role of a protector and caregiver, highlighting God's loving and watchful presence in our lives. Overall, Psalm 23:1 serves as a comforting reminder of God's intimate relationship with His followers and His commitment to meeting their every need.

American Standard Version

[A Psalm of David]. Jehovah is my shepherd; I shall not want.
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