The Path of Provision
He restores my soul; He leads me in the paths of righteousness for His name’s sake. Psalm 23:3
The 23rd Psalm is near to many of our hearts. It speaks of God's provision for us throughout the ups and downs of life. I'd like to share this Psalm written in the Amplified version and give a little insight here and there.
"The Lord is my Shepherd [to feed, guide, and shield me], I shall not lack." Right away, this Psalm lets us know why we are provided for. We have the Good Shepherd looking out for us, feeding us with His words, and giving us His protection. We shouldn't lack anything when we follow Him.
"He makes me lie down in [fresh, tender] green pastures; He leads me beside the still and restful waters." Revelations 7:17 explains, "For the Lamb Who is in the midst of the throne will be their Shepherd, and He will guide them to the springs of the waters of life; and God will wipe away every tear from their eyes."
"He refreshes and restores my life (my self); He leads me in the paths of righteousness [uprightness and right standing with Him–not for my earning it, but] for His name's sake." There is not one thing we did to deserve this provision from God. Because of Jesus, we are literally made into a new "creature," the Bible says, who now has right standing with God.
"Yes, though I walk through the [deep, sunless] valley of the shadow of death, I will fear or dread no evil, for You are with me; Your rod [to protect] and Your staff [to guide], they comfort me." God never promises that we won't have to endure hard things in this lifetime. However, we have this precious promise that He will be with us, protecting and guiding us through every step. Even when times are difficult, we have nothing to fear because He is right by our side.
"You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies. You anoint my head with oil; my [brimming] cup runs over." It doesn't matter trials are happening in the world for God's blessings to be packed to overflowing in our life. As we have learned this month, when we take part in the Kingdom of God through tithes and offerings, we have access to another economy – one that has plenty even when the world is in lack.
"Surely or only goodness, mercy, and unfailing love shall follow me all the days of my life, and through the length of my days the house of the Lord [and His presence] shall be my dwelling place." God is a good and merciful God, and He has only good things for us. Remember that the hard times in life are not from Him. However, He helps us through those times. Our job is to make Him our dwelling place – to abide in Him, as John 15 talks about.
What a perfect path and plan of provision God has for His children. However, He won't force us to stay on His path. We each choose to abide in His provision and blessing or to go our own way. I pray you choose to abide in Him and stay on the path He has for you today and every day.
Dear Lord, thank you for giving me a path of provision and protection when I follow you, my good Shepherd. Amen.