The 23rd Psalm (Part 2)
Written by
Sandra Dean
Good morning!
Joke of the Day:
Why was the little lamb so calm at the toy store?
Because it knew its Shepherd would provide what it really needed!
Let’s continue on with looking at the very famous 23rd Psalm.
Today’s Scripture is
The Lord is my shepherd I shall not want.
He makes me lie down in green pastures.
He leads me beside still waters.
He restores my soul.
He guides me in paths of righteousness
for His namesake.
Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death,
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
and my cup overflows.
Surely, goodness, and mercy will follow me
all the days of my life
and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever.
—Psalm 23
Our Lord Jesus makes us lie down. Why would He do that?
It reminds me of a loving parent making a young toddler lie down for a nap, even when the child doesn’t want to sleep. Why does the parent insist? Because the parent knows what is best for the child. The child’s body needs rest and sleep to stay healthy.
Let’s go back to our Scripture. Where does the Lord make us lie down?
In green pastures. Green represents healthy, productive land—land that is full of life and able to nourish and restore. Of course, the Lord wants us to rest in a place where He can refresh our souls.
Notice too that He leads me beside still waters. What picture comes to your mind when you think about still waters? Perhaps at perfect place to get a much-needed drink of water or take a quick dip on a hot summer day? God made each of us with a mandatory need for water. Without water, we wouldn’t live for very many days. Water sustains our body and refreshes our soul.
Jesus doesn’t lead us beside rushing, scary waters. He leads us beside still waters because He wants our hearts to be calm and peaceful.
Have you ever felt like you needed a soul adjustment?
Maybe you were worn out, tired of all the chaos, or just needed a little quiet time to reset and calm your heart and soul.
Our Creator, Father God, designed us to need times of refreshment and peace. Rest isn’t a weakness—it’s part of the way God made us.
So, the next time you notice you’re feeling stressed, worried, or frustrated, let that be a reminder to slow down. Take a few deep breaths and pray. Picture yourself lying down in green pastures and ask Jesus to restore your soul with His perfect peace.
Let’s Pray Together
Jesus, You know us better than we know ourselves because You made us. Teach us to slow down and spend time talking with You whenever we feel overwhelmed. You are the only One who can truly restore our souls. We love You! Amen.