Scripture Reading(s)
Psalm 23
23:1 The LORD is my shepherd, I shall not want.
23:2 He makes me lie down in green pastures; he leads me beside still waters;
23:3 he restores my soul. He leads me in right paths for his name’s sake.
23:4 Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I fear no evil; for you are with me; your rod and your staff– they comfort me.
23:5 You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies; you anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows.
23:6 Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life, and I shall dwell in the house of the LORD my whole life long.
Reflections
Fear, uncertainty and anxiety is something that can be all too common among the Christian life. When we are faced with trials and struggles, our hearts can grow tired and weak. We yearn for any source of strength to give us the means to keep going when we have no strength of our own. This Psalm illustrates for us a beautiful picture of what it means to live under the comforting and protective hand of our God.
He is a God that is our true shepherd. He cares deeply for His flock and will always equip us with the means to face any kind of uncertainty. He is the source of true comfort and peace when we are left feeling afraid. This Psalm serves as a strong reminder that when we are not walking through this life on our own. We have a God who is able to ward off any enemy, threat, or potential danger that can cause us harm.
His presence in our lives is there to provide us with His strength and courage. When we look at our circumstances from the perspective of a God who is in complete control of our lives, we are then able to faithfully trust in Him instead of feeling anxious.