The Psalm of the Shepherd

 


I find myself with a tender heart, not soft like a grandmother’s hug but soft and pliable as uncalloused feet – prone to blisters and thorns. 

Ouch!  That hurts. 

When I feel the sting of a briar in my heart, I have found great comfort in seeking the balm of the Shepherd found in Psalm 23. 

Join me in praying the Psalm below. 

 

The Psalm of the Shepherd

God is my Shepherd.  God guides, shields, meets my needs.

God encourages me to lie down in lush pasture - nourishing me.

God leads me beside still and quiet waters.

I am still and at peace, I’m refreshed and restored.

I’ve been called by God’s name.

Even though I might walk in sunless, shadow-filled valleys, 

full of the threat of death - 

even then, I don’t have to be afraid.

God’s rod and staff protect and guide, comfort and console.

God sets a table with a feast in the midst of this valley 

even when my troubles, suffering, and anxieties, 

press all around.

God anoints me,

God refreshes me,

God pours the oil of blessing over my head.

It runs down my head,

my cup overflows,

I have all that I need and more.

Surely this goodness, mercy, and unfailing love will follow my steps,

all the days of my life.

And all the mistakes I’ve made and all the ways I’ve gone wrong and all the ways I’ve fallen short will be healed - they will be redeemed and used for good.

And I will abide all my days in the house, in the presence of the Lord. 

God, we ask that your balm of mercy fill in the cracks of our soul and minds.  Heal the hurts that we’ve caused and those that we’ve received.  You are Enough.  Be our Enough.

We rest in you.

Amen

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