Whether on duty or at home, many of us live busy and stressful lives. There are millions of self-help books out there with many ways for dealing with stress. But as good as breathing exercises, long walks or positive thinking may be, they do not deal with the heart of the problem. In the heat of a stressful situation, these things may not even be options!

Psalm 23 gives us a picture of a Shepherd leading His sheep. God is the Shepherd and we are His flock. We learn that God makes us “lie down in green pastures; He leads [us] beside still waters” (v.2). This means that He provides for all our needs (both ‘pasture’ and ‘water’) and that He gives us rest, letting us “lie down”.

The Psalm goes on to say “I will fear no evil; for You are with me” (v.4). The writer knew that, even in the midst of stressful situations, he could be calm because God was with him.

Are you feeling stressed? Come to the Good Shepherd! He will never leave His sheep. We can live in His goodness and mercy every day (v.6a), giving our problems to His care and knowing He gives us a place in His house forever (v.6b). No matter what we face, nothing can break His promises.

Author

Lee McDade

Topics

Our Daily Bread