THE LORD OF ALL MY NEED!

 

Monday, September 16, 2024

 

THE LORD OF ALL MY NEED!

 

Summer, although still very warm in our corner of the world, is winding down. The sounds of school children echo from the school yards. Already shelves are stocked with fall decorations, Halloween things, and even Christmas trees.

 

It has not been a summer of rest but of flurry and sometimes worry. Our nation is in a crisis of leadership and there is great discontent.  The wicked rule and the people mourn. Yet we have a shepherd who is the Lord of all our needs.

 

Ps 23

The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want.

2 He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters.

3 He restoreth my soul: he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name's sake.

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.

5 Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies: thou anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over.

6 Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the LORD for ever.

 

When I need peace – he makes me lie down in green pastures beside still waters. I think this is modern man’s greatest and most elusive need.

 

When I am weak – he restores my soul [renews my strength]. Even young people are consuming popular “energy drinks” at an amazing rate but I have peace like a river.

 

When I am afraid – he walks with me through my darkest valleys. He protects me with his rod and guides me with his staff. My foot doesn’t stumble though the way is narrow and rough. When enemies and predators roar, he sets me inside a perimeter of safety and prepares a quiet dinner in the midst of it.

 

When I am troubled and frustrated – he anoints my head with oil protecting me from the burning of the sun and from the annoying flies and worries that buzz my head.

 

When I fear a lack of supplies – my cup, my portion, he fills to overflowing. I am given more than enough, sometimes through miraculous means.

 

When I think of my future – I realize that his goodness and mercy has led me all the way and I rest upon the promise that I will be welcomed into the House of the Lord where I have an eternal home.

 

Dear Lord, thank you for being my shepherd. Nothing will approach me today for which you are not prepared. I rest in you today. AMEN