The Lord is my Shepherd, I shall not want (Psalms 23:1).
The Lord—Jehovah, the self-existent One, is rooted in a word that means “to breathe.”[i] He simply exists, and because He exists, we, too, breathe.
Breath on me, breath of God, and I shall find rest and peace in Your presence.
In a world full of chaos, confusion, and uncertainty, it is crucial for us to take time to just breathe. Let the Shepherd breathe His breath into you, over you, all around you as you stop and acknowledge Him first in all circumstances.
Is my Shepherd—He knows I need Him, and He supplies my every need. He rules over me as a friend. His authority is unmistakable, though He guides me as a Companion. He cares for me. The word for “shepherd” is a primitive root, meaning this is the final word and definition. I can rely on it.
It is time to strike the beautiful balance of surrendering to the King’s authority while knowing Him as a friend and companion. We will not quickly go to the King with our needs, for we would not want to bother Him unless it is really important. But a friend and companion, we will bring our cares to Him, because we know He cares for us (1 Peter 5:7).
I shall not—The word for “not” is a root word, also. It is the final stop, there is no place further to dig; it is simply absolute, true, and reliable.[ii] This no means “no.”
Want—Another primitive root, it means “lack.”[iii] It can be applied to a variety of categories. I will not fail, go without, I will not decrease, and I cannot be made lower when the Lord is my Shepherd. The word for “want” is also a primitive root, a sure interpretation.
You watch over me. You care for me. When I follow You, I find peace, sustenance, and satisfaction. I am safe and protected. I know Your voice. Your voice is full of wisdom, compassion, and direction. It is my comfort and safe place. You are my Shepherd. I trust You to lead me in and through every season and circumstance.
Just breathe.
[i] J. Strong, Strong’s Dictionaries, e-Sword Bible study software. e-sword.net.
[ii] F. D. Brown, S. R. Driver, and C. A. Briggs, The Brown-Driver-Briggs Hebrew and English Lexicon. e-sword.net.
[iii] Ibid.