More on Psalm 23
As my Shepherd, Lord Jesus, you lead me beside the still waters—you give me time to be with you, to take in, to gain eternal perspective. You lead but I must both follow and drink, I must choose to spend time in your Word, in worship, in intercession and confession, in pouring out my heart and lifting my soul to you. And I can do this because you are “good and ready to forgive and plenteous in mercy to all who come to you” (Psalm 86:5).
As I choose to drink from your Word and revel in your presence, you will restore my soul: bring refreshment, insight, wisdom, understanding, greater faith and more praise. You restore my soul to more of its pre-fall perspective, making me more like yourself. “But we all, with unveiled face, beholding as in a mirror the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from glory to glory…” (2 Cor 3:18).
You will then lead me in paths of righteousness for your name’s sake—again, I must choose to follow. I can be sure that where you lead me will be righteous and upright, pure and positive and godly and good.
If I sense leading which is not one of these, then I can know that this is not you, but the subtle and sneaky call of the world, the flesh and the devil. This I want to reject so I can give you glory in all I do; therefore for the sake of your name, help me to gladly follow your righteous lead, no matter how much self-denial it requires.
Praise you, Lord God: you are my King, my Sovereign, my Shepherd, the One to be obeyed and feared, loved and served. Praise you for the wonderful and powerful privilege of being both your sheep and your ambassador in a fallen and faulty world, bringing your light to a deluded and deceived people.
Praise you for your Holy Spirit to fill, empower, guide and encourage. I praise you for your care, your protection, your provision, your presence throughout the day. May I be filled with your Spirit; may I be a vessel of grace to all I meet today; may I be a useful instrument in your hand, Lord, obeying you, living worthy of your calling and pleasing you in every way. To you be glory, honor and praise in and through my life today.
