Romans 1: 16-17
April 23, 2023
2 Corinthians 9:6
April 24, 2023
THE 23rd OF APRIL
WHILE JESUS IS OUR SHEPHERD, WE LACK NOTHING
The Lord is my Shepherd [to feed, guide, and shield me], I shall not lack. He makes me lie down in [fresh, tender] green pastures; He leads me beside the still and restful waters. – Psalms 23:1-2
Because I follow Jesus, who is my true Shepherd, He cares for me, guides me, and does not let me lack anything. What a comforting feeling to know that as long as we belong to the Lord and obey His leadership, He will meet our needs. Does that mean I have nothing to do, that I get everything without working or doing my part? The shepherd does not force feed his sheep. He leads them to the best pastures he can find, but they must graze the grass and digest it be truly fed.
If we ask God to give us the right job, He leads us to it, according to the skills He equipped us with and gives us the strength to do the work, but it is up to us to honor the duties we have. By praying and exercising hearing of the voice of God, we will be able to benefit more and more from His wonderful counsel and guidance.
The restful waters to which the Lord takes us represent spiritual rest, and we find it only in the presence of the Holy Spirit. It is the rest that comes from having faith in the care, protection and love of the Lord.
SUGGESTED PRAYER
My Lord, what a privilege I have to be guarded and protected by You! Help me never forget that You care for me and provide all my needs! Please help me to hear what You are telling me and to clearly identify the thoughts You bring into my mind, in order to lead and advise me! What rest and relaxation I find in Your presence! Please help me to not allow the worries of this world to steal the peace and joy that I have in You! Glory and honor to Your holy Name! In the Name of Jesus I pray. Amen
