April 19, 2024
The Lord is my shepherd; there is nothing I lack. He lets me lie down in green pastures; He leads me beside quiet waters. Psalm 23:1-2
You may be thinking that just two months ago everything was great! Now, my spouse is stressed and my children are unsettled. I am expected to have answers that I do not have. I can’t do ministry like this much longer!
King David knew desperation and stress. In the deepest valleys of his life, he chose to trust God, the faithful Shepherd. David teaches us four things about living strong in the valley.
First, God is our Shepherd. Shepherds guide and protect. They carry a rod to battle on behalf of the sheep and to correct the sheep who veer onto dangerous paths. Trust your Shepherd and don’t battle Him.
Second, God blesses beautifully. Psalm 84:11 says, “He does not withhold the good from those who live with integrity.” God delights in caring for His creation. Serve with integrity and walk in the Lord’s blessing.
Third, God provides green pastures to nourish His sheep. Your ministry may be the only source of spiritual nourishment many people experience. Provide a safe place as best you can where families are loved and offer strategic spiritual nourishment through the Word of God.
Finally, Solomon gives us the key to a refreshed soul. Seek out “quiet waters.” When was the last time you experienced the deafening silence that comes just after a thunderstorm or the calm of a country road at night? Effective leaders serve best from a restored soul, not a tired valley.
