I shall not want...

Since The Lord is my Shepherd, then I shall not want.  This is another bold statement of the certainty of God’s unfailing promise to be provider.  I shall not want.  Want means lack or deficiency.  This statement proclaiming “I shall not want” is a declaration that I will not be lacking anything needed.  There is no deficiency.  It is the idea of being utterly contented in the Good Shepherd’s care and not craving or desiring anything more.  This is complete trust of the Shepherd to care for His sheep.  In a sense it is a knowing that I shall not lack the expert care and management of my Master Shepherd.  I am under God’s care and I know it.  We see again this relationship between man and His maker.  Sheep living in contentment; completely satisfied. 

God is the owner who delights in His flock.  For Him, there is no greater reward, no deeper satisfaction, than that of seeing His sheep contented, well fed, safe & flourishing under His care.  He is very jealous of His name and high reputation as The Good Shepherd (John 10:11,14).

He keeps His eye on me morning to night!  Nothing escapes His watchful gaze.  He is a tender Shepherd who provides well for His sheep because He loves them. 

For a loving, diligent shepherd rises early in the morning and goes out first thing to look over his flock.  It is the initial, intimate contact of the day. He searches to examine his sheep to see that they are fit, content, and on their feet.  In an instant, he can tell if there is a sick sheep among them or if some require special attention.  Throughout the day, he watches over them to make sure all is well.  Even at night, he sleeps “with one eye open” to notice any kind of trouble.  He is alert and at the first sign of danger, he is ready to protect and defend his sheep.   Our Good Shepherd doesn’t slumber or sleep.  He is constantly watching over His flock with tenderness and compassion. 

I will declare “The Lord is my Shepherd, I shall not want.”

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