Happy Wednesday! I was thinking about what to write for today, and I thought about how me and so many of my friends have expressed how tired we are and stressed that everything is just going to keep getting busier leading up to finals. I want this post to just be a reminder that Jesus can be your rest, whatever your stressors might be this week. Whenever I am feeling overwhelmed, I read my favorite Psalm, which is Psalm 23:
"The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. He makes me lie down in green pastures. He leads me beside still waters. He restores my soul. He leads me in paths of righteousness for his name's sake.
Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me.
You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies; you anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows. Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life, and I shall dwell in the house of the Lord forever."
I love the imagery in this Psalm. For me, it is a perfect description of peace. Lying down in green pastures and walking beside still waters seems like the perfect way rest. But what makes this Psalm full of everlasting peace is the Lord being your shepherd. He's the one providing, protecting, and leading you. He restores your soul. He comforts you. There's no doubt that after this encounter with God, you could boldly declare, "Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life, and I shall dwell in the house of the Lord forever." God wants you to go to him when you're feeling tired or overwhelmed. Go on a scenic walk and listen to worship music or go somewhere you love to read the Bible. It might take up some time, but it will fill you with the peace and rest that you're looking for. My morning devotional got me to read Psalm 73:28 which says, "But for me it is good to be near God; I have made the Lord God my refuge, that I may tell all of your works." I've noticed this past year more than ever that it is good for me to be near God. My days are filled with more hope, joy, and peace when He is near. I'm praying that you will find time to be near God and feel the peace that comes from his presence this week!
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