Psalm 23:3b,“He leads me in paths of righteousness”
[I praise you, Lord Jesus, my great Shepherd, that you carefully and consistently show us the right way, the best way, so we can walk with you through whatever circumstances you bring or allow. We can be sure that you will always lead us in what is righteous; when we feel led to do something that is less than righteous, we can be sure this is not from you.
So often we are advised by well-meaning people to “just follow your heart!” But our hearts are naturally “deceitful above all and desperately wicked…” (Jer. 17:9). You came to save us from your hearts, so we could follow you instead. I praise you that we can know the way of righteousness because you reveal it to us with your Word, your life and the Spirit’s guidance.
Praise you for the preparation you have done to give us direction– driving us into the Word, teaching us your thoughts and giving us wisdom (“If any man lack wisdom, let him ask of God…” James 1:5)
Praise you for your constant presence to lead us step by step as we listen to you. “…run with patience the race set out before you, looking to Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith” (Heb. 12:2). Thank you for your loving, gracious, calming care.
Lord, help me to follow you in the paths of righteousness today that I may bring honor to you and joy to your heart.]
