Day 72 - Soul Restoration

Psalm 23:1-3
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.

 It was another long day in lockdown. I walked down to the canal, feeling tense, frustrated and down. There were so many things left incomplete, so many plates spinning, so many people I missed seeing. Feeling spent, I began walking by the waterside. It was there that he restored my soul!

 Psalm 23 is probably the most famous Psalm. Read at funerals, Christians retreats, and a Psalm that has inspired the writing of many songs, it expresses how the Lord meets us in the dark places, in grief, and in the restlessness of the soul. It gives language that gives birth to worship, as we look up to God, who is true to his promises in bringing wholeness and healing in him. 

 As I walked down the canal, I began worshipping in prayer under my breath as I meditated on this Psalm. I was reminded of everything a shepherd is: Someone who protects, who guides, who provides, who fights for and loves his sheep. The Lord, our Shepherd, is someone who guides us in many things in life. He is the expert in untangling the labyrinth of a restless soul; of piecing together the brokenness within us. He takes us to places, both geographically and spiritually, where he can refresh our souls. Like a sheep, we look to the shepherd, who leads us – we only need to follow. He knows our every need – we can trust he will provide for us. 

 Today, you may be feeling pressured, anxious, or overwhelmed. Or, perhaps you don’t feel like that! But either way, this Psalm encourages us to look up to the Lord our Shepherd, and let him lead and guide us so he can minister to the deep places of the soul. 

 Prayer – Thank you Lord that you’re my Shepherd and you provide for my every need. I come to you today. Would you refresh my soul.

Tim Bateman
Gas Street Leadership Team