Today’s Reading: Psalm 23

He renews my life; He leads me along the right paths for His name’s sake.

 

Psalm 23:3

Reflection

Whether it be through green pastures or through dark valleys, the LORD leads us along only right paths for His Namesake. When resting safe and secure with Him beside quiet waters, we lack nothing. And yet, the same is also true when we are in the presence of our enemies. Even here, we are blessed, for the LORD prepares a table for us. Our cups overflow by His Hand regardless of where in the world we stand, as long as we remain near to Him. There, we are satisfied. King David acknowledges situations of ease and of peril, and says that so long as the LORD is his Shepherd, he lacks nothing. So long as he is led by the LORD, he need not fear.

The right paths are not always the easiest ones to tread. But they are always the ones designated by the LORD. The right paths will always honor His Name. Thankfully, we need not try to find these right paths on our own, but are instead led to them and through them by the Shepherd Who walks before us and cares for us along the way. Thankfully, we are not destined to wander aimlessly with Him, but are led to dwell with Him one day in eternal safety. By the way He shepherds His people, God remains known for His mercy and lovingkindness. By His leading, all are able to see that He is truly good. Only goodness and faithful love are in store for us who pursue the LORD our Shepherd.

Prayer

O LORD, my God, thank You for being the Good Shepherd. Thank You for providing all that I need, for leading me down right paths for Your Namesake, and for keeping me along the way. I want for nothing because of Your goodness. I fear no evil, for You are with me. With You alone I dwell in safety. With You alone, my cup overflows. There is nothing like being near to You, LORD. Please keep me near You always. I long to stay with You through eternity. In the Name of Your Son, Jesus Christ, I lift these things up to you. AMEN.

 

Thru the Bible in a year (credit: Biblestudytools.com): Luke 18:1-17; Genesis 29:31-30:43; Psalm 23