Rest!

Rest!

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. Psalm 23:3 AMPC

Today's extract is part of the popular 23rd Psalm, the one that talks about the Lord being a Shepherd, and the benefits that come from that relationship and encounter. Being a shepherd reflects both encounter and relationship. You need to know the shepherd on a personal basis. You cannot recognise his voice or know what he wants without taking time to study Him, know His will and voice and follow Him closely daily. He leads daily, and my following too must be daily if I will really enjoy all the benefits of being His sheep.

When the issues of relationship and encounter are settled, life becomes a mix of all sorts of experiences. You get refreshing, rest, provision, protection, discipline, comfort, peace, joy and so many other things just as an outflow of that relationship with the Shepherd. I note here that having God as a Shepherd does not keep you away from trials and tribulations; His Presence is the key to standing tall and remaining strong. Or how do you appreciate refreshing and restoration if there has been no battering or pressure?

And one other thing: if I will remain stable and standing, I need to hear His voice and obey his leading. He LEADS me means He tells me WHAT to do and HOW and WHEN to do it. He helps me walk in the paths that look like His nature, because for all who follow God, our lives become a platform for God to reach the world. If I am not different from the people of the world, how would God be glorified in and through me? I do not earn or deserve it; God is even quite happy to give me all of it, because it is His name at stake and He will do anything to promote it and cause men to praise Him.

Therefore, the fundamental question is this: who is in charge of your life? The answer to this question has eternity as its target. You do not want to get to the end of your life and discover that you had submitted to the wrong guide and had listened to lies. God wants to be a Father, Shepherd and Guide, only if you let Him. What's your response? His time of favour is here.