Beside Quiet Waters: Psalm 23Uzorak

He leads me in paths of righteousness

The first part of Psalm 23:3 tells us that God restores our souls: he brings us out of our sin and shame and makes us new. But set right with God, how do we then move forward? In the latter half of this verse, the Psalmist David continues the narrative. He leads me in paths of righteousness…

For me, and I wonder if you can relate, I understand that I was saved by grace, but I often forget that I only continue in my journey by grace as well. Following the Lord is not dependent upon my own will and strength but upon God’s work within me. This is what Psalm 23:3 is getting at. It doesn’t say - I go forward in paths of righteousness - but rather - God leads me in paths of righteousness.

God not only picks us back up when we struggle or fail, he leads us on. It is God that empowers us to walk in paths of righteousness, to obey him and live in his ways.

God leads us in two primary ways. He leads us through Scripture. Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path (Psalm 119:105). And he leads us through his Holy Spirit. For all who are led by the Spirit of God are sons of God (Romans 8:14).

Are you looking for the path forward? Perhaps you are looking to grow in your struggle with impatience or anger. Maybe you are seeking to hold onto purpose and joy in a season where it can be easy to feel disillusioned. When you struggle to know the way forward, remember this. Through His Word and His Spirit, God is leading you in paths of righteousness. Today, rather than trying to figure things out on your own, rest in God, knowing that he is your ever-present guide and shepherd.