Key Verse: Psalms 23:1 “The LORD is my shepherd, I have what I need”

Want vs need. It’s an age old question and/or struggle and one we need to touch on before we dive too deeply into anticipation. Do you really need that (enter your biggest want) or is it something you want. For example, you or your child may feel like they need the newest, smartest, hi tech phone out there. But let’s stop for a second and consider are these phones- you know the ones we can’t seem to be separated from, really something we need? I mean, society seemed to move along fairly well for quite a long time without cell phones. Don’t get me wrong I’m not knocking the modern convenience of smartphones, but let’s be honest and admit that cell phones are more of a want vs a need. According to our key verse today, if we are living with Jesus as our Shepherd then He is really all we need. Understanding the difference between wants and needs does come into play when you are looking forward to something. Using the phone example, is it really wise to spend a ton of time anticipating, waiting and longing for that next big release? There will always be another one coming, which can lead us to never fully being satisfied. Whereas with Jesus, we get all of Him right up front!

Think and journal about:

• Do I truly, with all my heart and soul believe that Jesus is really all I need? If not, why? Be honest with yourself – God already knows your heart.
• Step back and think about the thing you crave more than anything else, take a moment to examine your motives. Now answer the question: Do I need this or is this something that will ultimately not satisfy? 
• When, where, how do you get tricked into thinking you need_____________?
• Spend a few minutes thinking about how knowing Jesus really is all we need. What are the things He freely provides and gives us every single day?

Deep dive scripture: Psalm 23