Still Waters

He leads me beside still waters. Psalm 23:2

The Lord said to the storm, "Peace, be still." Then silence. This same Lord that quieted the storm in the boat with his disciples is my shepherd. He has control over the elements and all other things. There are many places he could lead me and does lead me. But, often it is to a place of rest. He provided the Sabbath for us because we are an anxious people. Peace be still he says to me. Be still and know that I am God. What can man do to me? Whom shall I fear? God is the giver of my peace.

Green Pastures

He Makes me lie down in green pastures.
Ps23:2a

My shepherd leads me into green, lush pastures. He provides for my needs, food in this case. Not only food but the "pastures" are green...ripe and good to eat. Nourishing. So, satisfied am I with his provision that I lie down because I am full. There is an excess. He provides his grace in torrents. We receive more than enough. I can lie down not only because I am satisfied with his provision but because I am safe in his presence. He protects me from all things and watches over me with a never tiring eye. The shepherd gives his flock peace.

Peace

See in the meantime that your faith brings forth obedience, and God in due time will cause it to bring forth peace. John Owen

Ultimate God Compass

I came to faith in my late 20s. I had heard the story of Jesus and his death and resurrection. But I felt satisfaction in life would be found elsewhere. I set off on a journey to find fulfillment, peace, happiness....whatever you want to call it. I looked in a lot of different places over the years. Athletics, academics, partying, relationships, success, materialism. I looked for fulfillment in all. And found none. At the end of this journey, like Solomon it seemed to me life was meaningless. After running out of options, God mercifully pointed me toward him. In reality, the "compass" always points to him. We just don't look to see it, because we think we know better what is good for our lives. Jesus Christ has filled the emptiness in my life in ways that are unexplainable. He is the substance that fills the God shaped hole in each of us. Without him there is only disappointment and despair. Only he is the way, the truth and the life (John 14:6).