Perfectly Content

A Study in the Psalms: Psalm 23

Keller, W. Phillip. "I Shall Not Want." A Shepherd Looks at Psalm 23. Grand Rapids: Zondervan Pub. House, 1970. 26-34. Print.

Psalm 23:1b

I shall not want.

Keep in mind this psalm was written from the viewpoint of a sheep talking about his shepherd. The word "want" in this verse means lacking in the Hebrew language, but what does that really mean? This sheep, with Jesus as his Shepherd, is perfectly content.  Keller is careful to point out that the word "want" goes beyond just the meaning of not lacking in basic necessities. It means resting in God's care; being content and not desiring anything else.

I have to be very careful not to take this verse to mean that as a Christian I will never experience need or hardships. Paul went through many difficult times, and in Philippians 4:11 states that he learned to be content no matter what the circumstances. Likewise, David, a shepherd boy, who became king of Israel, expressed times where he experienced hardship. There are other examples of people in the Bible who experienced adversity. Look at Elijah, John the Baptist and even Jesus. These are only a few examples where people of God experienced hardship, and time of need, yet God took care of them.

Keller notes that the psalmist here is expressing that he can rest completely satisfied in the care of Jesus, knowing that there is no problem too great for Him to handle.

He 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 and flourishing under His care...From early dawn until late at night this utterly self-less Shepherd is alert to the welfare of His flock. (p.31)

I love Keller's picture of a shepherd caring for his sheep.

For the diligent sheepman rises early and goes out first thing every morning without fail to look over his flock. It is the initial, intimate contact of the day. With a practiced, searching, sympathetic eye he examines the sheep to see that they are fit and content to be able to be on their feet. In an instant he can tell if they have been molested during the night - whether any are ill or if there are some which require special attention.

Repeatedly throughout the day he casts his eye over the flock to make sure that all is well.

Nor even at night is he oblivious to their needs. He sleeps as it were "with one eye and both ears open" ready at the least sign of trouble to leap up and protect his own. (p.32)

What a beautiful picture of how my Shepherd, Christ, cares for me. There is not one need that goes unnoticed. He is already aware of everything going on in my life, every trouble, every hardship, every need. Matthew, in Matthew 6:8,32, talks about how God already knows my needs, but I am to seek after Him first and not be bogged down with worry over what I need. Even though He knows my needs, He expects me to bring them to Him and spend time with Him. Paul, in Philippians 4:6, tells me that I am to bring my worries to God. Philippians 4:19 reminds me that God will supply all my needs.

What a comfort it is to know that I can rest perfectly content knowing God is in control. I am under the care of the Good Shepherd. Although I might experience difficulties, He is still there lovingly caring for me.