Living the Lord's Prayer - Day 8

Preserver - I will fear no evil, for Thou art with me.

Do we really believe that? With so much hurt and hatred in our physical world, can we really let go of our fears? Does this promise mean bad things can’t happen to me? We all know that is not the case. We all suffer losses – of family, home, job. But the larger question is – ARE WE LOST? With Christ as our Shepherd, we know we can never be lost, never stray too far from His gentle guiding Hand. Have I not commanded you? Be strong and of good courage; do not be afraid, nor be dismayed, for the LORD your God is with you wherever you go. Joshua 1:9

Living the 23rd Psalm - Day 7

Pressure Reliever - For Yea though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death

In the Judean Wilderness there is a dry riverbed winding down into the valley to Jericho, called the Wadi Kelt. This might be considered the "Valley of the Shadow of Death" for along its path, it is steep and treacherous. One must choose one’s footing very carefully to keep from tumbling off the path and over the rugged cliff. Can you imagine guiding a flock of sheep along this terrain, ever vigilant for not only your charges but for yourself? For He shall give His angels charge over you, To keep you in all your ways. In their hands they shall bear you up,Lest you dash your foot against a stone. Psalm 91:11-12

Living the 23rd Psalm, Day 6

PETITIONER - He leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for His name’s sake.

He doesn’t make us go, He doesn’t push us down His Path – He walks ahead and encourages us to follow Him. His Path is paved with Good and Ethic stones, bordered by Sound Judgment and Genuine Love. It’s a road we don’t have to walk, but by following Him, the Way is made clear and our steps will be sure and firm. I will guide you in the way of wisdom and lead you along straight paths. When you walk, your steps will not be hampered; when you run, you will not stumble. Proverbs 4:11-12

Living the 23rd Psalm, Day 5

PHYSICIAN - He Restoreth My Soul

How does He do that? For me, my soul is reborn each time I see a field of stars or the nearly full moon tipping over a bed of low clouds. The song of a bird floating by or the chimes jingling in His soft breeze. The majesty of a mountain, the lull of the ocean. He is all around me, all the time. When that does not seem to penetrate my darkness, he places people in front of me, Angels on earth, who by their very nature restore my faith in humankind. My family blesses and nurtures my spirit and my soul just by their very being. Now may the God of peace Himself sanctify you completely; and may your whole spirit, soul, and body be preserved blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. 1 Thessalonians 5:22-24

Living the 23rd Psalm, Day 4

PEACE-GIVER - He leadeth me beside the still waters

Oh, that I could be a happy-go-lucky sheep, with no worries because my Gentle Shepherd perceives my every need. I need rest, He gives me a pasture; I need water, He leads me to a place where I might sip without being carried off by a rushing current. What did I ever do to deserve such care and concern? What can I do to ever repay this service? Let him trust in the name of the Lord and rely upon his God. (Isaiah 50:10)

Spring Upon Us

Believe me, I'm still LIVING the 23rd Psalm. I think I laid down in green pastures and took a little nap! I have been craving a sip of still water, though, so more to come soon with that.

How GLORIOUS spring is!!! Whether it snows or the birds sing their little hearts out, spring in Colorado is a true awakening of the spirit! A quiet, peaceful Easter Sunday spent with family just rounds it all out. He is Risen! Hallelujah!

Living the 23rd Psalm, Day 3

PAMPERER - He maketh me to lie down in green pastures

Considering we have free will, making me lie down anywhere never really fit the mold. When I consider, though, that He created lovely green pastures where I might respite, I revel in the Pampering Spirit of God. Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. (Matthew 11:28)