Psalm 23 is part of a trilogy of Psalms that calls attention to the person and work of Jesus Christ, specifically to His role as shepherd.
Psalm 22 highlights the fact that Jesus is the Good Shepherd who is crushed for His sheep. Because of His love, He willingly lays down His life for theirs. It begins with one of the last words Jesus spoke from the cross, “My God, My God, why have you forsaken me?” The Psalm graphically describes the suffering He endured because of His great love for us.
Just after that, Psalm 23 speaks of Jesus as the Great Shepherd who cares for those who are His. Jesus not only provides for our greatest need, our redemption and forgiveness of sins, but He provides for our every need as we depend and rely on Him. Consider what the Apostle Paul said in Romans:
32 He did not even spare his own Son but offered him up for us all. How will he not also with him grant us everything? (Romans 8:32, CSB)
Psalm 24 pictures Jesus as the Chief Shepherd who will come for His sheep. One day Jesus will come again! The One who was crushed for our redemption, the One who constantly cares for us and sustains us by His grace will return.
Peter says in 1 Peter 5:4, “And when the chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the unfading crown of glory.”
Probably the most recited passage in all of Scripture is Psalm 23. It was probably written by David when he was an older man looking back and recounting the faithfulness of God. He was a shepherd, so he likens the Lord to a shepherd caring for His sheep.
Because God is our shepherd, we have no lack and we can be assured of His constant provision and protection. According to 23:1, our faithful shepherd can be trusted to meet our every need.
The Lord is my shepherd; I have what I need. (Psalm 23:1, CSB)
David goes on to say that we can rely upon Him to provide refreshment (23:2), rest (23:2), renewal and restoration (23:3). He protects us (23:4) and will provide for us in this life (23:5) and in the life to come (23:6).
A growing disciple should learn to rely upon God, being totally dependent on Him and rest in the Lord, abiding in Him. My prayer for you is that you realize His faithfulness in every area of your life.
