The “I Shall Not Want” Life

Lack is essentially a scarcity mindset. The focus is typically on what you do not have. It is rooted in fear, self-reliance, comparison, and distrust as a result of anxiety, envy, hoarding, perpetual dissatisfaction, and feeling empty. Of which, the basis is from the world’s narrative, and system of disconnection from the Shepherd.

Prosperity is of the Shepherd Mindset. The focus is who has you, The Shepherd, and is rooted in trust, relationship, contentment in provision, and security that God provides. This comes as a result from the peace, gratitude, generosity, freedom from anxiety about needs, and deep satisfaction through our ultimate source, the active care and provision of the Lord, our Shepherd.

In this context true prosperity is then relational, via connection with the Shepherd, and not just material. Psalm 23:1 defines prosperity uniquely from the world’s system. It is not the absence of challenges or the abundance of stuff. It’s the profound, unshakeable confidence that because you are known and cared for by the ultimate Good Shepherd, your deepest needs are met. It is prosperity even of the soul.

You may not have the most, but you have sufficient means to live according to how God wants you to live.  You may walk through valleys, but you won’t walk alone or without provision. Your worth and security aren’t tied to fluctuating bank accounts or social media likes, but to the steadfast love of your Shepherd.

We have the opportunity to embrace the “I Shall Not Want” life by actively trusting God.  Choose to believe His promise of provision, especially when circumstances scream lack. Remember His faithfulness and His promises. The world tells us we are defined by our lack. Psalm 23:1 declares we are defined by our Shepherd.

“I shall not want” is a bedrock truth for navigating life and not an ode against hardship. It is the confident assurance that in the care of the Good Shepherd we lack nothing essential for our journey and flourishing. True prosperity is found in the deep, settled peace of knowing God provides for us, now and forever, rather than established in the relentless pursuit of more. That is uncomparable wealth nothing can take away.

Steady Your Heart

• To Pray: Be in prayer for a life that is aligned to move from lack to the prosperity defined by the Lord, Our Good Shepherd. Consciously turn your attention from what you lack to who your Shepherd is. Meditate on His character – His faithfulness, love, and power.
• To Reflect: Practice gratitude by actively acknowledging the provisions, big and small, that come from His hand so that your thankful heart will dismantle envy and scarcity. Determine need versus want by honestly assessing what is truly essential. Much of our perceived lack stems from inflated desires, not genuine needs.
• To Share: Live generously and counter the scarcity lie by giving to proclaim trust that the Shepherd provides and there is enough to share.

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