“The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want. He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters. He restoreth my soul: he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name’s sake. Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me. Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies: thou anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over. Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the LORD for ever.” (Psalm 23 KJV)
I just love this beautiful song. It is far more than a simple poem. It has given strength and comfort to more souls than we can ever imagine. Before having any medical or surgical procedures performed, my mother would always read it or have it read to her. There’s something about accessing God’s Word that bolsters faith and dispels fear and doubt.
That’s why this Psalm is so precious today. During a season of stress and apprehension, the Psalmist’s words remind me that my Shepherd is leading me. He has all my best interests at heart, so I will not lack anything. He leads me!
I don’t have to search for green pastures because He knows where they are and leads me there. I don’t have to search for calm waters because He knows where it exists and leads me there. This confidence certainly does restore one’s soul.
It’s energizing to remember that He is with me and evil cannot harm me. It brings a boldness that one cannot explain. I do not fear any evil around me because the evil fears the One who leads me. And He leads me to a table He has prepared for me in the very presence of those who are my enemies. Now that is something to carefully consider. My enemies have to stand around and watch me calmly enjoy the blessings of God while they are helpless to do anything about it.
In itself, the blessing of that table is enough to make anyone’s joy overflow. He leads me. He blesses me. He protects me. And the enemy is powerless against me. All because my Shepherd leads me. Hallelujah! Hallelujah!
Dear Father, thank you for leading me by the Holy Spirit through Christ. Empower me with sensitivity to your direction. This I pray in the name of Jesus. AMEN
Be courageous today and allow the Shepherd to lead you,