Friday May 15, 2020

Today’s Reading: Psalm 23

He lets me lie down in green pastures; He leads me beside quiet waters.

Psalm 23: 2

Meditation: The LORD is near to His beloved flock. He tenderly cares for them. Each one He watches over moment by moment, ensuring that they are given daily provision and rest. Sheep by nature cannot rest until they have been satisfied of hunger and thirst, are free of pests, and feel completely safe from harm. They must be tended to constantly. And so, the work of the Great Shepherd never stops, in order that His sheep have all that they need. While shepherding is seen as a lowly job, it is a job that the Sovereign LORD willingly takes on. The King of the Universe draws near to His flock and stays near because of His great love for them. His flock is highly valued by Him.

The LORD never leaves us. He is always near. Because He leads and guides us, all paths that He calls us to walk are places He has already been. Even in the darkest valleys He guides us through, we can stay near to the Shepherd and not be afraid. Even while our enemies look on, the LORD prepares opportunities to commune with Him in peace and rest, filling us up and blessing us richly. What a wonder it is to be near to the Almighty God! Nothing compares to His presence and tender love.

Our greatest rest, our truest satisfaction and our surest safety is found near to the LORD our God.

Prayer: LORD Almighty, Your great love and mercy upon me is so humbling. Thank You for drawing near to me and leading me. Thank You for Your daily provision and constant care. Thank You for all that You do for me. In Jesus’ Name, AMEN.

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