The Passion Translation is my new favorite translation of Psalm 23:1. It gives me fresh insights into what the young shepherd boy, David, must have meant when he wrote it. This Bible's footnote for this verse reads: "The word most commonly used for 'shepherd' is taken from the root word ra'ah, which is also the Hebrew word for 'best friend.' This translation includes both meanings." Since I surrendered my life to Christ for real many years ago, I have considered Jesus my very best friend, so reading this footnote is a great encouragement to me.

I believe that one of the points that David is trying to make in this verse is that, because he has a deeply personal relationship with the Lord, he always has "more than enough." In other words, David sees God as his Supplier and Provider. I love my husband, Joe, and he is my very best earthly friend, and second only to Jesus. Joe has been a faithful provider for our family for 50 years. But I do not see my husband as my source of supply. I see only Christ as my true Source. And this is one reason why I refuse to give in to fear or panic when we have financial or material needs of any kind. And if you are a follower of Jesus, you don't have to fear, either.

I love how Jesus told His disciples before He went to the cross, "Now you are My friends." (John 15:15 NLT) Think about that. If you are a born-again believer, you have access to the Son of God as your very best friend. And this is a gift from God Himself, as Scripture tells us: "He is the one who invited you into this wonderful friendship with His Son, even Christ our Lord." (1 Corinthians 1:9 TLB)

You are never going to find a friend who is more loyal, loving, giving, or able than Jesus. And if you will walk closely with Him on a moment-by-moment basis - asking for His guidance and grace every step of the way - You will have everything you need to live the abundant life that He died to give you. (John 10:10) I can honestly say, "The Lord is my best friend and my shepherd." Can you do the same?

Prayer: Lord, today I receive You as my best friend and shepherd. Draw me into a deeply personal and eternal relationship with You. Work in my heart so that I will seek You first whenever I have a need of any kind. Teach me how to hear and heed Your voice in every situation and circumstance. Thank You that as I give You first place in my life, I will always have more than enough!