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Abraham Maslow studied human needs and came up with a list he says we all have—Physical needs like air, food, sleep; Safety needs like protection from harm; Social needs like love and belonging; Ego needs like respect; Fulfillment needs like pursuing our full potential. Today, some experts question Maslow’s list or the way he ranks them. Yet it is striking to compare his list with benefits David found by having the LORD as his Shepherd. In Psalm 23, David says, “The Lord is my shepherd; I have all that I need. He lets me rest in green meadows; he leads me beside peaceful streams. He renews my strength. He guides me along right paths, bringing honor to his name. Even when I walk through the darkest valley, I will not be afraid for you are close beside me. Your rod and your staff protect and comfort me. You prepare a feast for me in the presence of my enemies. You honor me by anointing my head with oil. My cup overflows with blessings. Surely your goodness and unfailing love will pursue me all the days of my life, and I will live in the house of the LORD forever.” With the LORD as his ever-present Shepherd, David finds food, water, rest, protection, confidence, respect, and honor all the days of his life and into the eternal future. No wonder he chose the LORD as his Shepherd. So should we.
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This is SO truth. Maslow was about our earthly short-term needs. The Lord is about our spiritual eternal fulfillment. Yet, one has to go through so much before one comes to this awareness in which we can safely live all of our days. I am in my late 50s and have only recently come to feel at ease in my own skin. I am thankful for Dr. Melvin Banks.