Psalm 23.

Introduction

Welcome to this foundational study on Psalm 23:1: "The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want." In this workbook, we’ll explore the deep significance of this verse by breaking down its key components. Our aim is to understand the character of God as our Shepherd and how this impacts our daily lives. This session will include scripture readings, reflection questions, and actionable steps to help you grow in your faith.

Objective: By the end of this workbook, you will have a deeper understanding of who God is as our Shepherd and how this relationship affects your life.

Part 1: Scripture Reading

  1. Read Psalm 23:1:

    • “The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want.”

  2. Additional Scriptures:

    • Exodus 3:14-15: “God said to Moses, 'I AM WHO I AM... Say this to the people of Israel: I AM has sent me to you.' God also said to Moses, 'Say this to the people of Israel: The LORD, the God of your fathers, the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob, has sent me to you. This is my name forever, and thus I am to be remembered throughout all generations.'”

    • Genesis 2:4: “These are the generations of the heavens and the earth when they were created, in the day that the LORD God made the earth and the heavens.”

Part 2: Reflection

1. Understanding "The Lord"

  • Meaning: In Hebrew, the term for "Lord" is Yahweh (Jehovah), which means "I AM" or "The Existing One." It signifies God's eternal nature and self-existence.

  • Scripture Insight: Reflect on Exodus 3:14-15, where God reveals His name to Moses. How does this name, Yahweh, encapsulate God’s eternal and unchanging nature?

Reflection Question: What does it mean to you personally that God identifies Himself as "I AM"? How does this impact your understanding of His authority and presence in your life?

2. Exploring "Shepherd"

  • Meaning: The Hebrew word for "shepherd" is Ra'ah, which means to tend or feed. It conveys the idea of guidance, provision, and care.

  • Scripture Insight: Consider Psalm 78:52, where God is described as guiding His people like a shepherd. Reflect on how a shepherd's role (guiding, protecting, and providing) parallels God's care for us.

Reflection Question: How do you experience God as your Shepherd in your daily life? In what areas do you feel guided, protected, or provided for?

3. "I Shall Not Want"

  • Meaning: The phrase "I shall not want" suggests contentment and the absence of need. It reflects a state of sufficiency and peace.

  • Scripture Insight: Read Philippians 4:19: “And my God will supply every need of yours according to his riches in glory in Christ Jesus.” Reflect on how this promise aligns with the statement "I shall not want."

Reflection Question: What are the areas in your life where you struggle with wanting or lacking? How does the assurance that God is your Shepherd help you address these concerns?

Part 3: Action Points

1. Personal Prayer

  • Action: Spend a few minutes in prayer, thanking God for being your Shepherd. Ask Him to help you trust in His provision and guidance more fully.

  • Prayer Prompt: “Lord, thank You for being my Shepherd. Help me to trust in Your guidance and provision, and to find contentment in knowing that You meet all my needs.”

2. Daily Reminder

  • Action: Write down Psalm 23:1 and place it somewhere you will see it daily (e.g., on your mirror, computer, or journal). Let it serve as a daily reminder of God’s role as your Shepherd.

3. Reflective Journal

  • Action: Keep a journal for the next week. Note any instances where you see God's provision or guidance in your life. Reflect on how this reinforces your understanding of Him as your Shepherd.

4. Share Your Insight

  • Action: Share what you’ve learned with a friend or a small group. Discuss how the concept of God being your Shepherd has impacted your view of your needs and contentment.

Conclusion

Thank you for engaging in this foundational study. As we delve deeper into Psalm 23, remember that understanding God as our Shepherd lays the groundwork for recognizing how He meets our needs and guides us through every season of life. Keep reflecting on these truths, and may they strengthen your faith and trust in our ever-faithful God.