Gracious Father, we stand in awe, overwhelmed with thankfulness, and comforted knowing that you are our Great Shepherd. Unbelievable… “My Shepherd!” Oh, how desperately each of us need you. Aside from You, we confess our hopeless state of foolishness warped by our fleshly self-serving and sinful heart woven deeply in our nature, just like a lost, confused, ornery, wayward sheep. Oh, how we need you, our perfect shepherd, who rescues, feeds, governs, guides, defends, and cares for us. Lord Jesus, you are everything to us.
Father, thank you that no need goes unmet as we trust you. Your presence relieves us of all fear and allows us to lie down in peace. You know us intimately and guide us to green pastures and clear pristine calm waters; you provide comfort, care, and rest. You restore our soul. You are ever forgiving and powerfully transforming our once lost and hopeless life. You not only rescue us from our once destitute place, but you also lead and empower us in paths of righteousness. Oh, what a blessing that we are being transformed into your image, bringing glory, honor, and praise before your throne of mercy and grace.
Father, you have prepared for every encounter, even the ultimate challenge of facing the valley of the shadow of death. There, facing even death itself, your presence is closer than ever, delivering hope. Your hope is not a worldly one, but a powerful, assured hope that brings the knowledge and peace that what appears to be life’s end is merely a passageway to eternal blessing. There we will experience, infinitely beyond our current state, your powerful presence and blessing. I will fear no evil! For You are with me.
We thank you for your rod and staff that defends, rescues, and disciplines us; it is always pointing us in the direction of righteousness and blessing. Amid evil and enemies on this earth, you have prepared a table before us. May we find ourselves firmly planted at this magnificent banquet, thirsting, and experiencing you through your Living Word and intimate prayer that is empowered by your Spirit. May we bring honor to you as we find life through this intimate connection with you, our Mighty Savior and Good Shepherd.
Lord Jesus, as we bask in Your goodness at your banquet table, spare no oil pouring out blessing and protection upon us. Thank You for the overflowing cup, leaving no need unmet.
Lord Jesus, may we live our full lives knowing Your steadfast love as You render Your goodness and mercy upon us. And may we be blessed with Your love, security, and peace as we anticipate Your presence everyday now and forever more.
In Christ,
Blessings!
Psalm 23
1 The Lord is my shepherd, I lack nothing.
2 He makes me lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside quiet waters,
3 he refreshes my soul. He guides me along the right paths for his name’s sake.
4 Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me.
5 You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies. You anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows.
6 Surely your goodness and love will follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever.