40 Days of Encouragement
Dr Jim Brown's TruNorth Devotional
40 Days of Encouragement
Day 12 | ENCOURAGEMENT FROM THE 23RD PSALM
40 Days of Encouragement
Day 12 | ENCOURAGEMENT FROM THE 23RD PSALM
ENCOURAGEMENT FROM THE 23RD PSALM
Psalm 23:4-5
“Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will 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 runs over.”
I have found that no Scripture is more comforting and encouraging to people than the 23rd Psalm. I’ve had the privilege of quoting it at the bedside of many a dying person, in the ER of multiple hospitals, during memorial services, and more.
These two verses paint a couple of different pictures for us.
The first is that of a person walking through the valley of the shadow of death and yet fearing no evil.
Death is something people do fear. In part because we LIKE our lives here and partly – possibly – because of the unknown. Yet, in any case, the Great Shepherd is offering to go with us through this valley and to comfort us with His rod and staff (typical guiding tools for shepherds).
But then, I picture being at a table getting ready to enjoy a banquet, with my enemies all around me and ready to pounce. I’m at peace. I’m calm and ready to enjoy the meal. How is that possible?
Because the Great Shepherd is our Shepherd. “The Lord is my Shepherd.” But, He is no ordinary shepherd… He is all-knowing and all-powerful and guiding me! My part in this scenario is to follow; to do things His way; to not be a stubborn or stupid sheep, but to TRUST my Shepherd, listen to His calming voice, and follow His instruction and guidance.
But as with everything, I have a choice. I can follow Him or do it my way.
Prayer: LORD, I have enough experience doing it my way that I know that that’s the dumb decision. Help me to Follow You, Trust You, and lean on You, my Great Shepherd. Amen.
Psalm 23:4-5
“Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will 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 runs over.”
I have found that no Scripture is more comforting and encouraging to people than the 23rd Psalm. I’ve had the privilege of quoting it at the bedside of many a dying person, in the ER of multiple hospitals, during memorial services, and more.
These two verses paint a couple of different pictures for us.
The first is that of a person walking through the valley of the shadow of death and yet fearing no evil.
Death is something people do fear. In part because we LIKE our lives here and partly – possibly – because of the unknown. Yet, in any case, the Great Shepherd is offering to go with us through this valley and to comfort us with His rod and staff (typical guiding tools for shepherds).
But then, I picture being at a table getting ready to enjoy a banquet, with my enemies all around me and ready to pounce. I’m at peace. I’m calm and ready to enjoy the meal. How is that possible?
Because the Great Shepherd is our Shepherd. “The Lord is my Shepherd.” But, He is no ordinary shepherd… He is all-knowing and all-powerful and guiding me! My part in this scenario is to follow; to do things His way; to not be a stubborn or stupid sheep, but to TRUST my Shepherd, listen to His calming voice, and follow His instruction and guidance.
But as with everything, I have a choice. I can follow Him or do it my way.
Prayer: LORD, I have enough experience doing it my way that I know that that’s the dumb decision. Help me to Follow You, Trust You, and lean on You, my Great Shepherd. Amen.
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