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Topic: Rain (09/07/04)
TITLE: Rain, peaceful, refreshing and restorative rain! By shirley shields 09/11/04 |
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In the hectic busy world we live in, it seems that we need any and all elements that help us to unwind our thoughts. Of course the Word of God is the best one and not dependant on the weather forecast or a purchase, one being only a temporary solution to a set time period, while the other offers a permanent solution for eternity.
This week as I was trying to think about what to write for the weekly challenge word of rain, I happened to be studying in Psalms. As I was reading in the 23rd chapter and pondering on what the Lord promised to each of us in that chapter, I realized it was an excellent example for a permanent peace that has been offered to all believers. I have added my own pondering thoughts and comparisons after each verse as it spoke to my heart.
Psalms 23:1 the Lord is my Shepherd, I shall not want (lack).
A good shepherd watches over the sheep and its earthly needs in life. Always protecting them from their enemies that threaten them, if they are ever hurt or sick for some reason, he will even carry them until they are able to walk alone again.
Psalms 23:2 He makes me to lie down in green pastures (pastures of tender grass).
He leaded me beside the still waters. (Waters of rest)
His sheep can rest in peaceful surroundings knowing he is always on duty, day and night watching out for them as they rest up from their long day’s journey. One doesn’t have green pastures without rain of course, and nothing is more peaceful than to sit by a pool of peaceful water listening to its gentle gurgling sounds.
Psalms 23:3 He restores my soul, he leads me in the paths of righteousness for His name sake.
A good shepherd takes his duties seriously and provides me with His peace in knowing that whatever storms in life that I may encounter, He is always there with me.
Psalms 23:4 Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for thou art with me, thy rod and thy staff they comfort me.
While I may encounter some really rough terrain at times, and steep hills to climb with danger on every side, I fear not because I know the good shepherd is in control and with His rod and staff He will always protect me from danger.
Psalms 23: 5 Thou prepared a table before me in the presence of mine enemies; thou anointed my head with oil, my cup runs over.
He leads me to a prepared feast where I can delight in his love for me, He has anointed me with joy and gladness that brings peace to my very soul that passes all understanding by my enemies.
Psalms 23:6 Surely goodness and mercy (loving kindness) shall follow me all the days of my life; and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever.
His love and mercy is always present and surrounds us, we will always be in His presence forever.
I read in a reference an interesting tidbit of how shepherds can pin up their sheep together with other flocks around, but when they hear their shepherd’s voice they will automatically separate from the group and follow their shepherd.
Jesus Christ is the Good Shepherd; his sheep hear His voice and follow.
John 10:14; Hebrews 13:20; 1 Peter 2:25
He will never forcefully make us follow Him; we have to make that choice.
The Lord desire is to lead us to those peaceful still waters of rest in Him today, like a gentle rain that restores our spirit. Amen!
John 3:16 His offer is always available for the asking!
©Sue Shields 2004
www.sueshields.com
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