Psalm 23 | I Shall Not WantSampel

Verse 2. “He lets me lie down in green pastures; He leads me beside the still and quiet waters.” [AMP]

‭‭Why do we resist rest so much when God is continually making it available? We feel guilty. Culturally, western society applauds over-working and frowns upon those who have established rhythms of rest. We are often imbalanced, either running our lives into overdrive, or over-indulging in laziness. But David was reminding himself that, even though he was burdened down with the weight of his kingdom responsibilities, family issues, and personal internal struggles, God wanted him to rest and refuel.

In this sacred moment, David was essentially letting it all go and letting God do something supernatural in him. It was a restorative season of “what kingdom responsibilities?”, “what family issues?”, “who has abandoned me?” The lushness of green pastures, the stillness and quietness of the nearby waters represented God’s provision—not just to get him by, but to blissfully, abundantly restore him.

Even as you read this, you may find yourself resentful of anyone who has been able to discover such peace or restfulness. You wrestle with the desire to simply abide and relish God's presence and provision and the indulgence found in accomplishing more, building your own kingdom, or even proving you can stick it out in the face of challenges. Or it's quite possible that you have never learned how to truly rest. Even when you take time off from work you don't truly rest in God's care. Your heart feels anxious. You may feel like the world may stop spinning because you pulled away for a few hours or a few days.

He leads us there...if we will let Him.

The example David provided for us should remind us that, not only does the Good Shepherd let us lie down in lush, well-watered pasture that is loaded with soul-replenishing nutrients, but He leads us to the deep, still, quiet waters. It isn't as though we have to plead for this privilege. He leads us there...if we will let Him.

Dig a Little Deeper:

1. Take a few moments and think back on a time you truly felt refreshed and at peace. What were your surroundings? What did you have to walk away from or let go in order to accomplish such an experience? What was missing in that environment? What was added to create it?

2. Ask the Holy Spirit to reveal anything in your life that prevents your trusting the Good Shepherd to lead you to still and quiet waters--spiritually, mentally, emotionally, physically. Repent for those obstacles and ask Him to teach you how to let them go and truly trust His lead.