How God's Goodness Changes EverythingSample

God, in His Goodness, Provides

“The Lord is my shepherd, I lack nothing. He makes me lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside quiet waters, he refreshes my soul. He guides me along the right paths for his name’s sake. Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me. You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies. You anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows. Surely your goodness and love will follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever.” Psalm 23 (NIV)

God’s goodness is available to you, not because you are good but because he is good. You don’t have to do anything to earn God’s goodness toward you. In fact, it would be impossible.

Psalm 23 teaches 10 truths about how God will provide for you through his goodness:

1. God will meet all your needs. There is no reason to worry.
2. God will help you rest and find peace.
3. God will refresh and replenish you when you are drained.
4. God will guide you to make right decisions.
5. God will be with you on your dark and fearful days.
6. God will protect you and keep you safe.
7. God will support you, even if you are surrounded by conflict.
8. God will give you his favor.
9. God will fill you with more blessing than you can imagine.
10. God will secure your future and take you to heaven one day.

When Jesus came to Earth, he voluntarily submitted to the cross to pay for your sins. That’s why we call the day of Jesus’ crucifixion Good Friday—it was good for you and me! As he gave his life away, he opened the door for you to receive all the benefits of God’s goodness.

Jesus’ life, death, and resurrection are the ultimate expression of God’s goodness. Jesus said, “My purpose is to give them a rich and satisfying life. I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd sacrifices his life for the sheep” (John 10:10-11 NLT).

Everybody needs what God offers. But are you looking for it in all the wrong places? Many people expect to find all the goodness they need in their careers, bank accounts, friendships, romantic relationships, children, or family. But all those things will come up lacking. God is the only sufficient source of goodness in your life.

When you’re experiencing stress in your life, you’ve usually taken your focus off of God’s goodness. But when you choose to trust in his goodness and provision for you, you’ll be able to face your struggles with hope and renewed faith.

Look through the list of 10 ways God provides for you. Where, other than God, have you been looking for any of those needs to be met?

This devotional © 2025 by Rick Warren. All rights reserved. Used by permission.