Thoughts for the Day

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 right paths
for his name's sake.

Even though I walk through the darkest valley,
I 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
my whole life long.

(Church in Wales Lectionary, New Revised Standard Version)

Thoughts

Psalm 23 if probably most people's favourite psalm, but why is that? Perhaps it's because there are a number of themes that appeal to us, depending on our circumstances or our mood. Look at these - is there one that "speaks to you" today?

• God is like a shepherd seen in the hills of Israel, who acts as a gate to she sheepfold to protect the sheep from wolves and other predators.
• God refreshes and restores our souls when we are stressed or when life overcomes us.
• God guides us, leading us to the best and safest places to go, if we let Him.
• God comforts us and walks beside us when danger approaches.
• God offers us a place in His house now and in the future.

Lord God,
Great Shepherd of us, Your sheep,
we ask Your guidance and Your protection
for this day, and in the days to come.
May we turn to You at all times
in the confidence that You always have
our best interests at heart,
and know that we have a place
in Your house for ever.
Amen.