March 20
The Lord
is Your Shepherd
Psalm 23:1-2
The Lord is my shepherd, I lack nothing. He makes me lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside quiet waters,
Daily Steps
A primary cause of anxiety about the future is the fear of lack or scarcity—the worry that you won't have enough to meet tomorrow's needs. This beloved psalm provides the ultimate antidote to this fear by defining the secure relationship you have with your Provider.
The peace in this imagery is total:
Certain Provision: Declaring "The Lord is my shepherd" secures the promise that "I lack nothing." A shepherd's entire purpose is to provide for, protect, and guide the flock. Your needs—physical, emotional, and spiritual—are His responsibility.
Gentle Guidance: He "makes me lie down in green pastures" (rest and sustenance) and "leads me beside quiet waters" (peace and refreshment). He guides you toward places of nourishment and calm, not chaos or scarcity.
When the future seems vast and empty, remember you are not a wanderer; you are a sheep under the care of the Good Shepherd. Your peace is secured by His faithfulness and His commitment to provide exactly what you need, exactly when you need it.
Reflective Question
What is one essential thing you are currently worried about lacking in the future (e.g., finances, wisdom, strength)? How can you surrender that need to your Shepherd and trust that, because He is your Shepherd, you truly "lack nothing"?
Prayer
Lord, thank You for being my Good Shepherd. I confess my fear of lack and my anxiety about the future. I declare today that You are my Shepherd and that I lack nothing.
Lead me today to Your green pastures and quiet waters. I place my trust in Your constant provision and gentle guidance, securing my peace in Your care. Amen.
