You Are With Me

The LORD is my shepherd, I shall not want. He makes me lie down in green pastures; he leads me beside still waters; he restores my soul. He leads me in right paths for his name’s sake.

Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I fear no evil; for you are with me; your rod and your staff – they comfort me.

You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies; you anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows. Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life, and I shall dwell in the house of the LORD my whole life long.

Psalm 23:1-6

Sheep are built in such a way that if they fall over on their side and then onto their back, it is very difficult for them to get up again.

When a shepherd restores a cast down sheep, he reassures it, massages its legs to restore circulation, gently turns the sheep over, lifts it up, and holds it so it can regain its equilibrium.

When we are on our back, our loving Shepherd reassures us with His grace, lifts us up, and holds us until we have gained our spiritual equilibrium.

If you have been cast down for any reason, God is the only one who can help you get on your feet again. He will restore your confidence, joy, and strength.

The weak and helpless are in the Good Shepherd’s special care.

Our Daily Bread – August 28, 2009