This passage is pretty popular but do we really know what it means...like practically...in our day to day lives? Here are some concepts that have really been standing out to me the last few days… THE LORD IS MY SHEPHERD This means that Jesus guards, feeds, and guides us as the sheep in His flock. His main goal is to keep us safe, healthy, and moving to the right places for food and water. He leads us to safe places and takes note if we are sick or in danger. He chases away anything that is trying to come against us or attack us or harm us. He heals us and binds up our wounds. I LACK NOTHING We have TOTAL satisfaction and absolute provision. We possess everything necessary for life, health and peace because of Jesus. We don't have to suffer from emptiness or need because we lack NO GOOD thing in Jesus. (Psalm 34:10) We live in a state of complete fullness where no essential element is missing. Completely satisfied. HE MAKES ME LIE DOWN IN GREEN PASTURES The word "makes" is interesting to me. I think it means that sometimes we think we can keep going. We push ourselves too hard. This then means that we NEED rest and Jesus knows this. He then strongly encourages us to let Him take care of us. As we trust Him to provide for us. The green pastures indicate we can rest in the lush places that Jesus takes care of as He takes care of us. HE LEADS ME BESIDE QUIET WATERS When Jesus leads us beside the quiet waters, He is wanting us to have a deep inner peace that only comes from walking with Him. He also wants us to feel the safety of His presence with us. As we walk with Him we become spiritual refreshed from the refreshment provided by Him. He doesn’t want us to be overwhelmed by the loud rushing waters. So, He leads us to Him as our living water. He is still and calm and yet we still are hydrated so to speak by Him. We need water as humans…this phrase in the passage shows me that Jesus is mindful of our essential necessary needs. Safety and water. HE REFRESHES MY SOUL