I Shall Not Want

"I shall not want..."

Psalms 23

Some have translated this phrase "I shall not lack anything. There are at least two potential applications to this phrase. First, Gods children (sheep) can be assured that all our spiritual needs will be met. Secondly, God also provides our material or physical needs. Paul says in Philippians 4:19 "my God shall supply all your needs according to His riches in glory in Christ Jesus". When we consider that God is the owner of everything and His riches are limitless, we can be confident that He will provide what He knows is best for us.

To a large extent we in America have lost all concept of needs contrasted with wants. My visits to third world countries, Guatemala, Colombia, and Africa really awakened my senses to that fact. They have so much less, materially, than we do yet seem completely satisfied. I think our culture strongly encourages us to think of many unnecessary things as needs. The other thing I noticed is that those whose perceived needs have not grown out of balance seem to appreciate more the spiritual side of life.

Often, I think, we feel our spiritual needs are not being met but we are simply not appropriating Gods blessings in our lives. Ephesians 1:3 says "Blessed by the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly places in Christ Jesus." Notice that this passage tells us He lavishes the riches of His grace on us (v. 7-8). The blessings are there for us to accept.

I think another problem we have is we take Gods blessings in our lives for granted. Remember the story of the ten lepers that were healed (Luke 17:11-19). Only one said thanks. We should recognize Gods provision in our lives and be specifically thankful for all He supplies, whether spiritual or material. Ive noticed it is much easier for those who have little to be thankful, than for those who have much.

God has given you much. May I suggest you take the time to consider all He has given you. Consider the freedoms we have including reading and studying the Bible and all the resources He has given you to help you understand it. Do we appreciate the freedom of worshipping publicly? Spend some time thanking God for His provision in your life.