Restoration

The word “want” in this Psalm covers anything and everything that we might ever desire. It is all inclusive – covering the mental, physical and emotional as well as the spiritual areas of our lives. And if a “want” is important to us, we need to realize that it was important to God before we ever recognized it.

David left none of our “wants” beyond God’s grace and mercy. Even the important need to “lie down” in “green pastures” beside “still waters” so our “souls” could be “restored” is important to the Good Shepherd! It is so important to Him that He often makes us take time to replenish and refresh ourselves.

There are times when He intervenes in our lives and causes us to “be still.” Why? Not only does He want to guide us but He often has to guard us from ourselves. Jesus said, “Come apart and rest awhile.” If we refuse to “rest awhile” we may “come apart” and then need Him to be put us back together again so He can use us.

The Good Shepherd loves and cares for His sheep. He not only guides them but guards them. His protection brings His peace and with His peace comes His promise to make us “lie down beside still waters” where He will “restore” us – refresh and renew us.

In our frantic lives God expects us to rest in Him, trust in Him, take time for Him and worship Him. If we do not follow His pattern He may even force His rest upon us in ways we would not choose. We need the benefits that come from resting in Him and with Him.

Prayer: Help us, Lord, to recognize our need to be alone with You and be renewed, refreshed and restored. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Scripture for Today: Psalm 23:1 The LORD is my shepherd, I lack nothing.