The Lord is my Shepherd.....

"The Lord is my Shepherd, I shall not be in want. He makes me lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside quiet waters, he restores my soul.     -- Psalm 23:1-3
   
This verse gives me great comfort.   He restores my soul.  That sounds so good. But it is more than talk.  When we've reached that point where we can't go on, God blesses us with strength to just keep on walking. When we're in a struggle and things are tough, his power upholds us and we run to victory. When we're winning victories in his name, we can soar on wings like eagles. He is a shepherd and more. He is the Rock and Sustainer of our lives!  I've found this to be so true this past year!   I have a permanent vision of a winding road in my mind.   It has beautiful fall leaves on the trees on either side.  The road is rocky.   The Lord is at the end of the road encouraging me to keep walking, keep trusting, telling me to keep my focus on Him, not to look to the left or the right.   As long as I do that, I can keep walking by faith.   It's when I look to the left or the right that my circumstances overtake me and I get anxious.

Lord, help me rest tonight in your grace and in the confidence that you are nearby. In Jesus' name I pray. Amen.