Psalm 23:1 is one of the most well-known verses in the entire Bible. Simple and short, yet full of peace and strength, it says:

“The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want.”Psalm 23:1 (KJV)

This verse opens the door to one of the most comforting chapters in Scripture. King David, who once was a shepherd himself, uses this image to describe God's care, protection, and guidance over His people.

What Does “The Lord Is My Shepherd” Mean?

Shepherds in Bible times weren’t just animal herders. They lived with their sheep, protected them from wild animals, searched for them when they were lost, and led them to food and water. Saying “The Lord is my shepherd” means God is deeply involved in our lives. He watches over us, provides for us, and leads us in the right direction.

“I am the good shepherd: the good shepherd giveth his life for the sheep.”John 10:11

David knew the life of a shepherd. He faced lions and bears to protect his flock (1 Samuel 17:34–36). That’s the kind of protector he saw in the Lord.

“I Shall Not Want” — What Does That Mean?

When David says, “I shall not want,” he doesn’t mean he’ll get everything he ever wishes for. Instead, it means he will lack nothing that he truly needs. God provides everything necessary for life, godliness, peace, and protection.

“But my God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus.”Philippians 4:19

This verse shows confidence. David isn’t hoping God will help him — he’s certain of it.

Real Life Comfort in Psalm 23:1

This verse comforts people in every season of life:

  • In grief: It reminds us that we are not alone.
  • In fear: It tells us someone stronger is guiding us.
  • In need: It assures us God will provide.

Even in the darkest times, Psalm 23 speaks hope. That’s why it’s read at funerals, during sickness, and in times of personal trouble.

“Casting all your care upon him; for he careth for you.”1 Peter 5:7

Table: What a Shepherd Does vs. What God Does

Role of a Shepherd What God Does for Us
Feeds the sheep Provides our daily needs (Matthew 6:11)
Leads them to water Refreshes our souls (John 4:14)
Protects from danger Guards us from evil (Psalm 121:7)
Finds the lost Seeks and saves us (Luke 15:4–6)
Lives among the flock Dwells with us (John 1:14)

Bible Verses That Support Psalm 23:1

“Fear thou not; for I am with thee: be not dismayed; for I am thy God.”Isaiah 41:10
“The young lions do lack, and suffer hunger: but they that seek the Lord shall not want any good thing.”Psalm 34:10
“He shall feed his flock like a shepherd: he shall gather the lambs with his arm.”Isaiah 40:11
“The Lord is good, a strong hold in the day of trouble; and he knoweth them that trust in him.”Nahum 1:7

Why Psalm 23:1 Still Matters Today

Life today is fast, full of stress and uncertainty. Psalm 23:1 slows us down. It reminds us:

  • We’re not in control, but God is.
  • We may face lack, but God knows our needs.
  • We may feel alone, but our Shepherd is always near.

When the world feels dark, the Shepherd brings light. When we feel lost, He brings direction.

A Daily Reminder

You can make Psalm 23:1 a prayer:

“Lord, thank You for being my Shepherd. I trust You to lead me, feed me, and protect me. I shall not want.”

Let this verse live in your heart, especially when life feels uncertain. The Good Shepherd never leaves His sheep.

Tagged: Verses

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Romans 6:23

For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.

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Romans 5:8

But God commends his own love toward us, in that while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.

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Romans 10:13

For, “Whoever will call on the name of the Lord will be saved.”

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You shall seek me, and find me, when you search for me with all your heart.

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