“The LORD is my shepherd, I lack nothing. He makes me lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside quiet waters, he refreshes my soul.” Psalm 23:1-2
Lord Jesus, come and make me lie down in green pastures of grace, for I have a restless, wandering heart. Take me along, and into the quieting waters of the Gospel. Grant me, and my friends, refreshment that can’t be found in changed circumstances, only in a compassionate Shepherd.
As your lambs, none of us lack anything essential. But I need you to help me sort through my feelings. Shepherd my heart, Jesus.
I feel vulnerable. I’d love control over outcomes, pain, and disappointments. I’d be a total mess if I didn’t believe you’re at work in all things for our good (Rm. 8:28). Your sovereignty is my sanity, even though I whine about your timetable.
I feel sad. Some of its godly grief over the “cannibalism” I see among believers—lambs with fangs, biting and devouring one another (Gal. 5:15). It’s not “high time” we “played nice.” It’s a critical time we live as yours—loving as you love us.
I feel angry—not angry at someone, more like an undercurrent of resentment and irritation. Probably 87% of it (conservative guess) is generated by my selfishness, idol of control, and fear.
I feel loved. If I wasn’t certain of your love for me, Jesus, I would medicate my pain foolishly. I’d get in and stay stuck in a cycle of seething and blaming others. I want neither. I want you, Jesus. Come shepherd my heart. So Very Amen.