“The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want.” Psalms‬ ‭23:1‬ ‭NKJV‬‬

David was declaring God is Jehovah Raha which means pastor, teacher, friend, associate.

The Lord is my pastor. He comforts me, protects me, looks out for my well-being, counsels me when I’m hurting, reminds me of Truth when I am doubting.

The Lord is my teacher. He gives me fresh revelation. He reveals beautiful things in His Word. He instructs me into right living. He prepares lessons specifically for me and corrects me when necessary.

The Lord is my friend. He likes to hang out with me. He visits with me daily. We laugh together and dance together. We share secrets and finish each other sentences.

The Lord is my associate. He allows me to partner with Him. We share vision. He supports my dreams.

I shall not want. This can be translated as I cannot lack, fail, decrease, abate, be made lower, diminish, or have a need. Because a Good Shepherd feeds.

The story of Jesus feeding the multitude is an example of Jesus as Shepherd. He taught. He was concerned about their well-being like a pastor. He ate with them like a friend. He associated with them as He healed them. He fed them until they were full and there were leftovers.

Let us, like David, declare this simple truth: The Lord is my Shepherd, my Pastor, my teacher, my friend, my associate. I shall not want, fail, lack, decrease, abate, diminish, or be in need. Because my Shepherd is good and He supplies all of my needs according to his riches in glory.