Psalm 23:1 – “The LORD is…”

As I read, prayed, and meditated on the Word of God today, the 23rd Psalm drew me like a moth to a flame.  It has long been a comfort, a challenge, and an encouragement.

It begins, “The LORD IS…”   That is the indispensable foundation.  If we fail to capture the “Is-ness” of God, none of the remaining promises has any power for us.  He IS…

Then, because He IS, we can embrace Him as our shepherd.  He is the one who watches over and provides for us.  And, because He IS and is our shepherd, “I shall not want.”   Want is lack.    Because He is all sense of lack dissipates.    Why?    He has all things and has blessed us with all spiritual blessings in the heavenly places.   He supplies all our needs according to His abundance.   All belongs to Him.   He cares for all of creation.  “The LORD IS my shepherd; I shall not want.” That’s our position and promise in Christ.

Then, the Psalmist takes us on a visual journey detailing the abundance of God’s provision for those to whom He IS and shepherds them.  Green pastures (daily provision).  Still waters (renewal and regeneration).  Restoration in our souls (spiritual nourishment and enlightenment).   Paths of righteousness (godliness).

He continues with assurance that no matter what we face, we have the God who IS with us.  The Living God is guiding every step.  Awareness of His “Is-ness” drives out all fear because fear lives in uncertainty, and if we are conscious and confident that He IS, there is no uncertainty.

Then, we see the pavilion tent of rest, protection, and provision – “Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies…”   Take devil: you can see me, but the God who IS, is providing for me, and to touch me, you have to go through Him.

“Anoints my head with oil; my cup runs over.”    The Isaiah 61 anointing is ours, and we have a well springing up inside to enable us to live, but also to bless others with life!

Then comes the finale – “Surely goodness and mercy shall relentlessly pursue me all the days of my life; and I will dwell in the house of the LORD forever.”   There is nowhere to hide from His provisions, protection, and presence.  Because He IS, we are more than conquerors.  We pull down strongholds.  We set captives free.  We give what we have, and we have HIM, which means we have EVERYTHING, NO LACK!

It is time to refocus on the “IS-ness” of God.   When He IS in our hearts, He can become LORD of our lives.  It is then that we become who He says we are, More Than Conquerors!

Let’s learn to rest and rely on the “is-ness” of God!   He is our Shepherd!