Lacking Nothing: An Exploration of Psalm 23

In this sermon, “Lacking Nothing,” Pastor Johnny explores God as our Good Shepherd, drawing from Psalm 23. This timeless passage reassures believers that God provides, protects, and guides us, as a shepherd does for his sheep. We can find comfort and assurance in God’s presence, even in challenging times. Jesus, as our ultimate Good Shepherd, sacrificed Himself for us, and we can trust in God’s eternal provision and care.

God as Our Good Shepherd

In Psalm 23, we see imagery that parallels a shepherd’s care for his flock with God’s care for humanity. Pastor Johnny explores this metaphor of God as our Shepherd and outlines four key roles of a good shepherd:

1. Protection from predators
2. Prevention of internal conflicts
3. Provision of nourishment and water
4. Defense against disease and parasites

With God as our Shepherd, we lack nothing, despite our human tendencies to feel insufficient.

The Sufficiency of God’s Care

As we navigate life’s challenges and trials, we may find ourselves in the “darkest valleys.” But because of God’s presence, we can overcome fear. Pastor Johnny points out the psalmist’s reference to the rod and staff as symbols of God’s protection and guidance, providing comfort and confidence. Even amidst adversity, God can provide blessings. God’s ability to bless us even in the presence of enemies is symbolized by a prepared table. This imagery represents God’s provision despite challenging circumstances.

God’s Eternal Promise

The sermon concludes by reflecting on verse 6, affirming God’s enduring love and goodness. This powerful love is what we see in John 10:11, when Jesus, our Good Shepherd, sacrificed his life for his flock. This sacrifice exemplifies the depth of God’s love and care. Pastor Johnny closes by encouraging trust in God, reassuring us of God’s constant presence and provision in all aspects of life, and pointing to the hope we have of eternal fellowship with Him.

Discussion Questions

1. In what areas of your life do you feel a sense of lack or insufficiency, even though God has promised to meet all your needs? How can meditating on the imagery of God as the Good Shepherd help shift your perspective?
2. The sermon highlights the shepherd’s role in protecting the sheep from predators, resolving conflicts, and guiding them to nourishment. In what ways have you experienced God’s protection, peace, and provision in your life recently? How can you develop a greater awareness of His care for you?
3. The dark valleys of life are inevitable, but the promise is that God is with us, guiding and protecting us through those difficult times. Can you share a personal experience of God’s presence and guidance during a challenging season? How did that experience strengthen your faith?
4. The sermon emphasizes the importance of adopting a posture of humility and embracing our identity as helpless sheep in need of the Good Shepherd. What practical steps can you take to cultivate a heart of surrender and dependence on God?
5. The gospel invites us to partake in the riches of God’s eternal provision and presence. How can this promise of eternal life shape the way you live and make decisions in the present?

Application prompt: This week, meditate on Psalm 23 and the imagery of God as the Good Shepherd. Reflect on the areas where you struggle to trust in His provision and protection and ask God to increase your faith and dependence on Him. Additionally, consider ways you can share the hope and comfort of this passage with someone who may be going through a difficult season.

Prayer prompts

1. Confession of Neediness: Lord, I confess that like a helpless sheep, I am utterly dependent on You as my Good Shepherd. Forgive me for the times I have tried to rely on my own strength and provision instead of fully trusting in Your care. Help me to surrender my sense of self-sufficiency and to embrace my need for You.
2. Petition for Protection: Heavenly Father, as I navigate through the dark valleys of life, I ask that You would protect me with Your rod and staff. Give me the courage to face opposition and adversity, knowing that You are with me, guiding and guarding me every step of the way.
3. Praise for Provision: Great Shepherd, I praise You for Your abundant provision in my life. Thank You for leading me to green pastures and still waters, where my soul finds rest and nourishment. Help me to recognize and appreciate the ways You provide for my every need.
4. Intercession for the Lost: Lord Jesus, You are the Good Shepherd who lays down His life for the sheep. I pray for those who are lost and wandering, that they may hear Your voice and respond to Your call. Draw them into Your fold, that they too may experience the riches of Your eternal presence.
5. Commitment to Follow: Shepherd of my soul, I commit myself anew to following You wherever You lead. Help me to listen for Your voice and to obey Your commands, trusting that Your path leads to life eternal. May my life be a reflection of my surrender to You.