On Psalm 23

Summer Psalms - On Psalm 23

July 23, 2022

Pray for Illumination  -  Heavenly Father, help me to know your ways; teach me your paths and lead me into your truth. Amen.

Read Psalm 23

He guides me along the right paths for his name’s sake.   Psalms 23:3

One of my favorite psalms is Psalm 23.  I know that I am not alone in that.  It is the most common scripture passage read at funerals and memorial services, often cited as a favorite scripture.  It is usually read to bring comfort to those who mourn, those walking through their own valley.  However, this Psalm, especially verses 2 and 3 are the words that have led me into prayer, where I envision walking along a stream with Jesus, sharing my heart with him but also listening to him speak back into my life.  

…, he leads me beside quiet waters, he refreshes my soul.   Psalms 23:2-3

These verses remind me that I am safe in the Lord’s hands.  I am assured of His presence.  I know that in the ups and downs in life and even in death, the Lord will lead me through.  He has staked his very name on it!  

What is it you fear most today?  Failing at something?  Letting people down? Future uncertainties? Sickness or even death?  Get into a quiet space for prayer or go for a walk and open your heart up to God.  If it helps, allow your imagination to take you to a place where you are walking with Jesus.  But most importantly, take time to listen.  What do you hear Him speaking back into your life?  Know that He cares about you and will lead you through.  

Surely your goodness and love will follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever.    Psalms 23:6