He makes me lie down in green pastures. He leads me beside still waters.Psalm 23:2
I love a freshly mown and groomed lawn. Place a blanket on the grass in a peaceful park on a sunny day and I will show you how to take a nap. As David continues his poem about his Good Shepherd, he describes the shepherd bringing his sheep to calm waters and having them lie down.
To create an environment for the sheep to rest and ruminate is not an easy task. They are hindered by their fragile temperament. Shepherds say there are several obstacles that keep sheep from being able to lie down and rest. The threat of predators, friction or conflict with other sheep, harassing bugs, and concerns about finding food in the future top the list. The presence of the shepherd is the strongest positive influence and can dispel their fears ushering in rest.
We are so very similar to sheep. The frustrations and distractions we encounter in life stir our senses and occupy our minds. We have a hard time sitting still and settling in with so much going on around us. Our surest remedy is to go to the presence of our Great Shepherd.
In His presence our fears are dispelled—the enemy and predator of our soul retreats. In His presence we recognize the pettiness of our conflicts with others, and we are encouraged to settle our accounts. He is familiar with the many irritations we get bugged by in life, reminds us of how He forgave us, and challenges us to do the same. God is attentive to all of our needs and is perfectly positioned to offer rejuvenating rest.
God doesn’t allow us to see the details what’s ahead in life, but His past faithfulness provides us confidence in His future care.
Jesus said, “Take my yoke upon you, and learn from Me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and in Me you will find rest for your souls.” Matthew 11:29
Where do you need to grow in your trust of Him?
May you come and lie in the Good Shepherd’s care and find rest for your tired soul.
Blessings,
