Prepare – Psalm 23:1-4
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.
Devotional
He cares for you! The Lord is my shepherd (Jehovah – Rohi). Like a shepherd, the Lord cares about you and takes care of you. A shepherd cares more about his flock than anything else. He cares when one is hurting and even when one has gone astray. As a shepherd, He desires to keep his sheep close to his side. In verses 2-3, we see clearly Jehovah’s care for us like a shepherd cares for his sheep. He makes us lie down, meaning in Him we find rest. He makes us lie down in green pastures, which is a metaphor representing all that makes life flourish. He also leads us beside quiet waters. He brings peace and comfort in the times of hurt and pain.
He is the only one who can fill the caring role of a shepherd in your life. He is the only one who can and will provide rest and peace. He is the only one that is capable of allowing you to walk along the quiet waters without physically being there. Are you letting Him care for you? The passage continues with verse 3, “He refreshes my soul.” Meaning, He heals the broken hearted. Jehovah – Rohi gives you rest, makes life flourish, leads you by quiet waters giving you peace and comfort, refreshes your soul, and guides you along the right path.
As we come to the end of 30 for 30 – Part II, I want to encourage you to take some time today and sit with God and allow Him to care for you. Know Him for who He is.
~ Pastor Andy Veith
Praise
Watch and listen to “Great I Am” by Phillips, Craig & Dean and “Just Be Held” by Casting Crowns.
